Abstract
Globally, harnessing solar energy technology, and managing costs, depletion and pollution has
become a topical theme. The study examined factors that determine solar energy technology (SET) adoption
readiness by sampling 1510 households in South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Seychelles, Zambia and
Zimbabwe. Targeted user identifiers and capabilities improved the perceived economic value of solar energy
technology was established. Several perceived economic values, barriers and drivers were established as
factors determining the readiness of a society to adopt solar energy technologies. A model to determine
solar energy technology adoption readiness was developed. The study recommended the need for
government energy policies that promote the affordability of solar energy technologies. Furthermore, the
issue of perceived uncertainty, beliefs about consequences and consumer asymmetric require interventions
by development agencies and solar energy companies. Furthermore, there is a need for e-platforms and
mobile platforms to provide critical information on servicing, installation, backups and the creation of
information hubs and innovation hubs.