Cross-country review of smart grid adoption in residential buildings

Abstract

A smart meter is an energy metering device with advanced features that allow consumers to track their energy consumption. Smart meters are widely considered a solution for achieving energy efficiency and sustainable development. In addition to understanding consumer perceptions, expectations and intentions, a clear understanding of the influence of how national values and norms affect smart meter adoption behavior is needed by policy makers and investors in smart grid deployment. The aim of this study was to examine similarities and differences in consumer adoption of smart meters across Taiwan, Korean, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Data obtained from surveys in the four countries were analyzed by structural equation modeling to determine the interacting factors in consumer acceptance of smart meters. Consumer perceptions, expectations, and intentions regarding the potential use of smart meters across the four countries were analyzed and compared. The findings of this study improve understanding of regional differences in consumer adoption of smart grid systems. The findings can also help investors and policy makers involved in smart grid investment decision making. Finally, suggestions are given for maximizing the success of smart grid development in the researched countries. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.