Systematic analysis of factors affecting biogas technology acceptance: Insights from the diffusion of innovation

The energy shortfall and escalating energy demand in developing countries require emergent alternatives to cope with the situation. In this regard, biogas technology (Bio-Tech) may assist in meeting the increasing energy demands. This research comprehensively reviews the literature on the driving and inhibitory forces of biogas acceptance. As a further step, a questionnaire survey is conducted to examine the respondents' perception-based impact factors of Bio-Tech acceptance under the five dimensions of Roger's model. The obtained responses are analyzed and interpreted to identify the driving and inhibitory forces affecting Bio-Tech acceptance. Based on the findings, first, grid connection independency is revealed to be the most important driving force of Bio-Tech acceptance according to the users and non-users of biodigesters. Second, the respondents agreed that social approval was an important contributing driving force. Third, energy safety is proven to be another major driving force. In addition, the high rates of conventional energy; uninterrupted electricity supply; best energy alternative; positive word of mouth; financial feasibility; trial options, such as "money-back guarantee"; environmental amicability; and the sustainability-based behavior of the respondents are declared to be among the significant driving forces of Bio-Tech acceptance. Concerning inhibitory forces, first, the frequent maintenance of biodigesters is found to be the most significant. Second, the long payback period is exposed to be a critical inhibitory force. Third, the lack of ease of access to biogas-based local markets and the inaccessibility of experts are indicated as significant inhibitory forces. Moreover, the complications in handling the new technology, inadequate incentives, applicability to limited energy appliances, reconstruction of houses, drop in efficiency, escalated installation cost, and energy supply insufficiency are established to be vital inhibitory forces of Bio-Tech acceptance at the respondent level.