ABSTRACT
Fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas are typically used to generate electricity. Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources and harmful to the environment as they release greenhouse gases when burned. With the increased demand of cleaner sources for electricity generation, renewable sources need to be adopted. In India, Tirunelveli District, solar energy has been used in numerous industrial buildings as a source of electricity generation since the country benefits from high solar radiation throughout the year. However, solar energy is still not used in residential buildings despite a wide interest from the sector. This paper identified and assessed the barriers to implementing solar energy in residential buildings from the perspective of homeowners in India, Tirunelveli District. Based on a literature search followed by a ranking and factor analysis of data from a questionnaire survey, key barriers were identified. Ninety-one responses from residents in India, Tirunelveli District were obtained. The questionnaire results showed that the main barriers to adopting solar systems are financial limitations followed by limited solar suppliers in the region and lack of awareness of government incentives. The results of this study could be used to help suppliers and industrial stakeholders in understanding the major barriers and the government to put forward policies to promote solar systems for electricity generation in residential buildings.