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Small-scale solar panel adoption by the non-residential sector: The effects of national and targeted policies in Australia

Author

Listed:
  • Rohan Best

    (Department of Economics, Macquarie University)

  • Paul J. Burke

    (Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University)

Abstract

Use of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels by the non-residential sector can contribute to climate-change mitigation and boost economic outcomes. Prior studies have primarily focused on the residential sector. Using data from 1,595 postcodes across the Australian National Electricity Market, we investigate five novel research questions for non-residential solar-panel adoption. National and sectoral policies, business size, and cross-sectoral influences are found to be key drivers of non-residential solar PV uptake. We find a subsidy elasticity of about 1.2 for Australia’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), an economy-wide renewable portfolio standard for small-scale renewables. Residential solar capacity is positively associated with future adoption by the local non-residential sector, and geographical convergence effects are observed. The findings align with the principle that investment is spurred by policies that lower upfront capital costs. Following Australia’s experience, a small-scale renewable portfolio standard is particularly worthy of consideration for further adoption.

Suggested Citation

  • Rohan Best & Paul J. Burke, 2022. "Small-scale solar panel adoption by the non-residential sector: The effects of national and targeted policies in Australia," CCEP Working Papers 2204, Centre for Climate & Energy Policy, Crawford School of Public Policy, The Australian National University.
    • Handle: RePEc:een:ccepwp:2204
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    File URL: https://ccep.crawford.anu.edu.au/sites/default/files/publication/ccep_crawford_anu_edu_au/2023-01/best_burke_ccep_2204.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • M21 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Economics - - - Business Economics
    • Q48 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Government Policy
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy
    • R38 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Real Estate Markets, Spatial Production Analysis, and Firm Location - - - Government Policy

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