A Critical Approach on Sustainable Renewable Energy Sources in Rural Area: Evidence from North-West Region of Romania
Gabriela O. Chiciudean,
Rezhen Harun,
Felix H. Arion,
Daniel I. Chiciudean,
Camelia F. Oroian,
Iulia C. Muresan
Affiliations
Gabriela O. Chiciudean
Department of Economic Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Manastur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Rezhen Harun
Department of Agribusiness and Rural Development, College of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sulaimani, Kurdistan Regional Government-Iraq, 5100 Sulaimani-Bakrajo, Iraq
Felix H. Arion
Department of Economic Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Manastur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Daniel I. Chiciudean
Department of Economic Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Manastur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Camelia F. Oroian
Department of Economic Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Manastur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Iulia C. Muresan
Department of Economic Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Manastur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
In the favorable context of a potential increase in the use of renewable energy sources in Romania, a research was conducted among the rural population in the North-West region of development in order to analyze public perception regarding this alternative energy production. A survey was conducted on a sample of 322 respondents and data was analyzed using different statistical methods (Principal Component Analysis, Cluster analysis, etc.). Results indicated a positive attitude towards renewable energy and support mainly from young and highly educated people. The percentage of users is relatively low and there is little intention in the future to switch to a renewable energy source even if it is perceived as a sustainable way of living. Lack of knowledge regarding renewable energy sources is the most important aspect and authorities should assume a mission in the public education of citizens in order to implement the measures and achieve the goals established in the national strategy plans.
