An Exploratory Analysis of Public Perspectives towards Renewable Energy Sources in India

The aim of this research paper is to study and investigate the public perspectives and awareness level towards the Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) in India. A comparative analysis between the Fossil Energy Sources (FESs) and the RESs on various aspects is discussed. The total power generation, growth rate, its requirement, availability and deficit position over the last decade are discussed. The need of transiting from the conventional to the RE-based economy is also highlighted. Moreover, the challenges and barriers in this transition are debated. The importance of awareness and public perspectives in adopting the RESs is further presented. For this plan, a questionnaire based study was conducted. 1025 participants from all over India participated in this study. In response to a question, 90%, 95% and 96% participants from rural, semi urban and urban background, respectively agree with the statement: ‘switch to RE is urgent need’. Another question is posted to see how many people agree or disagree with the statement, "Climate change is a critical issue that must be addressed." This statement is supported by 95% of semi urban and urban respondents and 92% of rural respondents.The result analysis shows that the participants have a sound knowledge of problematic aspects related to the FESs and hence they prefer the RESs for its solution. In answer to a question, 35% of females and 47% of males say they are willing to pay more for energy that comes from green sources. Furthermore, the participants comprehensively think that use of the renewables is the best way to deal with global warming. Additionally, the results clearly acknowledge that the urban, male and post graduate (PG) participants have more positive perspectives towards issues such as renewables urgent need, energy independency and willingness to pay more bills for the renewables. The current study provides a data set to the researchers for future studies in this area.