Human behavior and socioeconomic influences on renewable energy adoption in Qatar

ABSTRACT

Energy transition in hydrocarbon-rich regions like Qatar is crucial for addressing climate change. This study, acknowledging gaps in our understanding of societal perspectives on this transition, specifically investigates public views on renewable energy (RE) in Qatar. A mixed-methods questionnaire was employed to capture a broad spectrum of public knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and behaviors regarding RE. A distinctive feature of this research is its integrative approach, which encompasses environmental, economic, and policy alongside public perception and media influence. This methodology effectively bridges the research gaps in Qatar, providing a comprehensive understanding of the country’s energy transition. Multiple analyses of responses (n = 604) revealed significant trends and sociodemographic factors influencing these detailed societal opinions on RE. The findings demonstrate a cautious yet optimistic public viewpoint toward RE, with substantial support for increasing its usage over traditional oil and gas. They also highlight the importance of governmental initiatives and the global shift toward sustainable practices, along with the need for enhanced public education to bridge gaps in understanding various RE sources. The study uncovers complexities in public attitudes, shaped by sociodemographic factors, and underscores the discrepancy between initial enthusiasm for RE and its sustained daily use.

KEYWORDS:

• Public perceptions
• renewable energy
• socio-economic impacts
• energy transition
• behavioral influences
• Qatar

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.