Socio-Economic Factors Influencing the Adoption of Sustainable Energy Technologies and Practices In Ghana

This study aimed to explore the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of sustainable energy technologies and practices in Ghana. To identify the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of sustainable energy technologies, a comprehensive literature review was conducted which provided context on linkages between energy and economic development, sustainability concepts, renewable energy technologies, and determinants of adoption established in prior empirical works. The study used the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model as the theoretical underpinnings of the study. The study adopted quantitative research using the pragmatic research philosophy as the underlining philosophy for the study. Furthermore, the purposive and snowball sampling techniques were adopted with a sample of 338 respondents who completed questionnaires administered via online and in-person. The population consisted of energy policymakers, experts, financiers, researchers, and investors involved in the sector. Sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula to be 385 participants. The data obtained from the respondents was then analyzed using Exploratory factor analysis (principal component extraction) to condense the variables into underlying dimensions. Two components; Component 1 “Energy Consumption and Infrastructure Dynamics” and Component 2 “Policy, Market and Social Dimensions” were jointly explained by 74.525% of variance based on eigenvalue and scree plot criteria. The findings provide empirical evidence to guide transition policy and strategy formulation in Ghana. Specifically, holistic frameworks spanning multiple spheres of public intervention, private activity, and social engagement are recommended based on the multi-stakeholder perspectives analyzed. The study expands existing theoretical paradigms and offers direction for future empirical inquiries in this domain.