Shining a light on disparities: A comparative analysis of residential photovoltaic adoption inequality in Australia and Brazil

Abstract

There is a growing consensus that the energy transition must also be just. In this context, the inequality in the adoption of residential photovoltaic (PV) systems is under scrutiny as solar energy adoption rises. Despite the existing evidence of the inequality in PV adoption, there is a need to examine how this issue has evolved across different contexts, particularly in developing countries. This paper aims to compare the inequality in PV adoption between Australia and Brazil over the last decade. The mix of methods includes analyzing descriptive statistics, a Solar Gini index, and regression models. The findings reveal that inequality in residential PV adoption in both countries has not changed substantially. Lower-income quintiles have faced lower adoption probabilities than higher-income groups. However, Australia demonstrates a better position, with a more equitable distribution of solar systems across income groups. The lack of inequality change suggests that technology diffusion alone may not eliminate PV access inequality for low-income groups. It emphasizes the ongoing need for targeted policies to enhance justice in solar access.