Behavioral and Technological Barriers in Renewable Energy Adoption: A Socio-Technical Perspective

Abstract

Over the last twenty years, the global energy sector has seen rapid technological progress and a notable drop in the costs of renewable energy technologies [1][2]. Solar photovoltaic module prices fell by more than 89% between 2010 and 2022, while onshore wind costs decreased by nearly 69% in the same period [1]. Despite this, adoption rates remain uneven worldwide and consistently fall short of projected targets [3]. This gap is not just due to economic or technical issues. The use of renewable energy involves complex dynamics that include technology systems, institutional structures, market mechanisms, and human behavior [4]. This paper presents a detailed socio-technical analysis of the behavioral and technological barriers that hinder renewable energy adoption. Barriers are categorized into six dimensions: psychological, cultural, infrastructural, regulatory, financial, and grid integration. The study critically looks at how social perception, institutional trust, risk aversion, and resistance to change affect adoption decisions at household, industrial, and policy levels [5]. On the technology side, the paper rigorously analyzes issues like intermittency, energy storage limitations, grid compatibility problems, cybersecurity risks, and supply chain dependencies, using quantitative data and empirical evidence [6]. A socio-technical interaction framework is suggested that it brings together behavioral insights, technology innovation paths, and policy tools. The findings show that transitions to renewable energy need the simultaneous development of technology infrastructure, institutional reform, and social acceptance, rather than just engineering improvements.

Cite as:

Rachita R., & Manish Kumar. (2026). Behavioral and Technological Barriers in Renewable Energy Adoption: A Socio-Technical Perspective. Recent Trends in Thermodynamics and Thermal Energy System, 2(1), 25–43. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19592960