Social acceptance of energy storage technologies: empirical evidence from the southern Arava region, Israel

Energy storage technologies (ESTs) play an important role in integrated, decentralized renewable energy systems. However, the lack of public acceptance and awareness of ESTs can significantly delay or block the implementation of renewable energy projects. This study aims to identify the societal and legislative barriers to implementing ESTs using the southern Arava region in Israel as a case study. This research involves semistructured interviews with decision-makers, such as government officials, stakeholders, and business owners. Additionally, an online survey is conducted to understand the knowledge and awareness of residents of this region about energy transition and the various types of ESTs. The findings indicate that while 83% of respondents supported EST installations outside their residential areas or workplaces, 27% opposed having them within their residential areas. Approximately 11% of respondents stated that ESTs negatively impact the landscape, and approximately 6% expressed concern about the health-related hazards caused by local energy storage facilities. Our findings not only highlight that decision-makers consider the economic benefits to the local community as the main driving factor for public acceptance of such installations but also show that ESTs are a critical step toward achieving energy independence and increasing urban resilience to cope with unexpected crises.