Rural photovoltaic panels were removed by urban management

Does community management influence household adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaics in rural China?

This paper examines inequality in household adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaics in rural China through a qualitative study of three villages. The Chinese government promotes distributed solar to drive low-carbon development. However, community management and China’s institutional system influence unequal access.

Can solar photovoltaic projects help alleviate poverty in rural areas?

Nature Communications 11, Article number: 1969 (2020) Cite this article Since 2013, China has implemented a large-scale initiative to systematically deploy solar photovoltaic (PV) projects to alleviate poverty in rural areas.

Are solar projects causing tensions in rural areas?

Construction of the first large solar projects, including Solar Star, completed in 2015, drew little opposition. They were sited mostly in remote areas such as the California desert. Now, tensions are rising as the sector plans bigger projects and reaches into more populated rural areas unfamiliar with solar.

Why should rural communities switch to solar energy?

By transitioning to solar energy, rural communities can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and improve energy access. This shift also contributes to building resilience against natural disasters and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Are low-quality solar panels a problem for rural residents?

However, rural residents are at a disadvantage in these communications. Their education levels tend to be lower and they have less access to information. Therefore, when solar installation companies use low-quality PV panels, households often cannot identify the problem. The low-quality panels reduce the power generation and income.

How can we support solar power projects in rural areas?

Non-profit organizations and international aid agencies can offer donor funding to support solar power projects in rural areas. Microfinance, through offering micro-loans specifically for solar power installations, can enable rural residents to access funding for solar systems.