Key enablers and barriers of solar paver technologies for the advancement of environmental sustainability

Abstract

Global initiatives to improve environmental sustainability have centered on reducing energy consumption and developing technological solutions for greener power generation. Current insights on innovations for environmental sustainability are primarily from developed countries, with limited studies originating from developing countries. This study focuses on solar paver technology, a potential innovation for sustainable generation of power. The interest in this technology lies in its dual-purpose ability to enable both functional road surfaces and the use of solar roadways that can generate electricity to power other road infrastructure such as electric lights. To maximize the potential of success of deployment of solar pavers, it is important to investigate the practicalities of solar pavers and understand the perceptions of stakeholders that will be responsible for the implementation of solar pavers. This research addresses this gap in knowledge. Thirty construction industry stakeholders in Malaysia were interviewed through focus group discussions and interviews. This study applied the diffusion of innovation theory to develop an understanding of the nuances of solar pavers. The findings identified three superordinate categories (motivation, opportunity, and ability) and nine categories (compliance with green initiatives, promote corporate social responsibility, dual functionality, financial incentives, sunny climate, increased environmental awareness, green experience, experts network and familiarity with solar technology) as the key enablers. Key barriers constitute two superordinate categories (challenges and weaknesses) and ten categories (reluctant authority, vandalism, complexity of installation and maintenance, high humidity and rainfall, negative environmental impact, high cost, design flaws, low efficiency, questionable practicality, and better comparative opportunities). There is an acceptance of solar pavers by the stakeholders and cost and ownership structures are the key to the deployment. The findings provide fresh insights into a new form of sustainable solar paver engendering new streams of research in construction engineering and technology management. Implications for management and organizational research are discussed.

Sustainable Development in Renewable Energy: Management of Solar Energy Application in Malaysia

“…So that the solar panels can perform maximum capacity of energy production. Besides, Malaysia government also introduced the Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA) and Green Income Tax Exemption (GITE) to accelerating the investment in green technology equipment [27]. Wang, et al [28] stated the ecosystems have been polluted seriously because of the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) generated from the burning of fossil fuel.…”

Pioneering the Path to Sustainable Construction: Unveiling the Triumphs and Trajectories of Innovative Materials

“…Community engagement is crucial to upholding the industry's good name, minimizing opposition, addressing concerns, and fulfilling community and local government expectations for any development that has been planned. In March 2022, the Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) introduced "Inclusive Solar Outreach Awards," which aim to increase equitable access to solar energy benefits and adoption, as well as to attract and retain a diverse target audience (Teh et al, [37]). In Denmark community engagement also has been held to gather feedback from the community regarding future development of solar plant in that country (Asiri Design Cost of Rammed Earth Construction [3]).…”

Does ICT Development, Innovation Dissemination Promote Economic Growth and Human Capital? An Econometric Approach Based on East African Countries

“…Sustainability is the quality and ability to be maintained at a specific rate or level over time (Kumar & Kumar, 2017). A systematic approach toward sustainability constitutes economic, social, and environmental aspects (Ejemeyovwi et al, 2019a;Zhao et al, 2021;The et al, 2021). Several extant pieces of literature can be found on the relationship between ICT or Innovation and any of the aspects of sustainability (Toader et al, 2018;Boot & Marinc, 2010;Agbemabiese, Nkomo, & Sokona, 2012;Shehzad et al, 2021).…”