Testing the effectiveness of deploying distributed photovoltaic power systems in residential buildings: Evidence from rural China

It is critical to promote photovoltaic (PV) power since it helps build up an efficient energy system and facilitates the achievements of China's carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets. However, there are several challenges to deploy distributed PV power in rural areas. In order to uncover the key influencing factors and measure the associated environmental and economic benefits of deploying distributed PV systems in rural China, we conducted a questionnaire survey and interviews in 296 villages with 913 rural households from 2019 to 2023. An econometric model was established to uncover the factors influencing the installation of distributed PV systems in rural China. The results show that those households living in the PV pilot policy areas are more inclined to accept distributed PV systems. Better understanding of relevant policies, more active involvement of village committees and higher educational level of villagers led to their higher enthusiasm for installing PV systems. We also find that distributed PV power can result in significant energy savings and emission reduction. Based on these findings, we propose several policy recommendations from the perspectives of system construction, governmental regulations, and capacity building efforts. We expect that these findings can help promote rural energy transition through the application of distributed PV power in rural households.