Global insights on rooftop solar adoption in the hospitality sector using systematic literature review

Abstract

This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify and synthesize the drivers and barriers influencing rooftop solar (RTS) adoption in the hospitality sector, with a focus on hotels. Using PRISMA guidelines, 390 peer-reviewed articles published between 2012 and 2024 were analyzed through both descriptive and thematic analysis, covering economic, environmental, personal, social, demographic, technical, market-related, and regulatory factors. Findings reveal that while financial savings, policy incentives, environmental awareness, and vendor trust serve as strong adoption drivers, high upfront costs, technical limitations, policy inconsistencies, and limited awareness remain critical barriers. The review also applies the Capability–Opportunity–Motivation–Behavior (COM-B) framework to map these factors, providing a holistic understanding of adoption behavior. Results highlight research gaps, particularly in hospitality-specific and developing-country contexts, and recommend innovative financing models, stronger vendor engagement, and policy streamlining to accelerate RTS adoption.