Analyzing public discourse on photovoltaic (PV) adoption in Indonesia: A topic-based sentiment analysis of news articles and social media

The importance of integrating renewable energy, such as solar PV, in the global energy mix for mitigating carbon emissions is increasing. Despite the global drive towards renewable energy, the limited uptake of solar PV particularly in developing nations, such as Indonesia, poses significant challenges for transition to sustainable energy. This study analyses public discourse to comprehend the obstacles for widespread adoption of solar PV technologies. This study employs topic modelling and sentiment analysis of mainstream and social media data to comprehensively capture public discourse and perceptions concerning PV and residential PV adoption in Indonesia. The findings reveal shared thematic areas in both mainstream and social media. Nonetheless, the two media types diverge significantly in their focal points. Our findings support previous survey-based research while introducing three new topics found in both media channels. These topics are: (1) knowledge, misconceptions, and skepticism, (2) economically viable alternative PV technologies; and (3) government regulations and policies. Social and visual impressions such as aesthetics, hedonic motivation, and social influence are notably absent. Public perception varies, with mainstream media portraying PV technology more positively than social media. From both media, the public generally holds favorable views of PV, particularly in terms of its practicality, installation, safety, and information accessibility. Nevertheless, negative perceptions arise regarding investment costs, regulations, governmental policies, and the adequacy of government support. © 2023 The Authors