Investigation of the barriers for the diffusion of photovoltaic systems in Cape Town

Abstract: The diffusion of photovoltaic (PV) systems is not only increasing in the current global electricity market, but everywhere there are barriers that are hampering the process. In this thesis the respective barriers for the diffusion of PV systems, as well as the current electricity market of Cape Town, situated in South Africa, will be analysed. The diffusion theory is used to highlight the factors that are affecting the diffusion process. The affecting factors are: relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability and observability. In addition to this, the pre-diffusion phase focuses on the importance of the communication between the suppliers, adopters and the government in the diffusion process. Therefore an appropriate methodology was required to conduct this research, this was achieved by using a case study approach. The South African energy market was analysed with respect to the impact of policies, adopters and the suppliers of PV systems. Interviews with six local experts where conducted, to gather primary data from the suppliers’ perspective, mainly regarding how they perceive the barriers for the diffusion of PV systems. The results revealed that the diffusion of PV systems is still in the pre-diffusion stage, and faces numerous barriers. The outcomes of the analysis showed that the barriers could be categorized into four different themes namely: sociotechnical, management, economic and policy. Although the barriers could be categorized into different themes they are interrelated to each other. After analysing the results it became clear that the policies and the lack of involvement and communication of all actors, are the crucial barriers that need to be overcome for an effective diffusion process of PV systems in Cape Town.