Exploring the factors impacting public participation intention in biomass projects is becoming increasingly pertinent as sustainable energy initiatives gain traction globally. A recent study conducted by Indonesian researchers integrates the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to shed light on the key elements influencing public willingness to engage actively.
The study indicates the pressing need for effective biomass project implementation, which relies on active public involvement. Indonesia, projected to increase its energy supply by 1.55% this year to approximately 1,853 million barrels of oil equivalent, recognizes the necessity of public acceptance and participation, particularly as the authorities aim to boost the renewable energy mix by 31% by 2050.
Through systematic literature reviews and empirical research, the study successfully framed its investigation around various influential factors. The researchers conducted surveys targeting 75 corn farmers and wood artisans from Banyuwangi, Indonesia, achieving a 75% response rate. The study's analytical approach employed Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), aiming to predict and measure public participation intention effectively.
From the study, one significant takeaway was the identification of Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC) as the most influential factor impacting intention among the respondents. "According to the PLS-SEM calculation, the most influential factor for Intention (INT) is Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC)," noted the researchers. Their findings suggest individuals are more likely to engage with biomass projects when they feel capable of allocating their resources—time or energy—toward the initiative.
Further outcomes revealed other relevant determinants, including perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, influencing attitudes and subsequent intentions. Interestingly, the study found confirmation for 13 out of the 18 proposed hypotheses, offering key insights for the power generation industry and policymakers when strategizing on sustainable biomass energy projects.
The methodology underlying the study holds considerable merit as it channels insights from both TAM and TPB, providing comprehensiveness to the analysis. "The integration of theoretical models allows for more comprehensive analysis of factors influencing public participation," the authors highlighted. Such approaches can offer actionable insights relevant to improving public perceptions and engagement.
Prior studies within resource-scarce regions have indicated the necessity of educating communities to raise awareness and assess their intentions accurately. The authors advocate for strategies promoting education and awareness about the benefits of biomass projects, intertwining the findings from the integrated TAM-TPB framework.
This study's conclusions draw attention to the broader societal and environmental dimensions of public participation. By engaging local communities effectively, the potential to develop sustainable biomass supply chains aligns seamlessly with the desired energy goals set forth by the Indonesian government, reinforcing the importance of renewable energy adaptation.
While the study offers substantial insights, the authors recommend additional research to bolster public engagement mechanisms within various regional contexts. By addressing identified factors and leveraging behavioral insights, stakeholders can promote increased public participation, thereby sustaining renewable energy advances.
To conclude, the empirical model developed through the integration of well-established behavioral theories promises to enrich the dialogue surrounding biomass participation intentions and the sustainable energy discourse, paving the way for actionable change aligned with Indonesia’s renewable energy targets.