Exploring Values and Perceptions of Renewable Energy in Taiwan from an Environmental Perspective: A Case Study on Geothermal Power

This research explores Taiwan's renewable energy initiatives through geo-thermal power, integrating the Value-Belief-Norms (VBN) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), alongside political trust and environmental risk. Using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), we assessed the ecological compensation that individuals are willing to offer for conservation and geothermal projects. Of the 453 questionnaires distributed, 412 valid responses were obtained, reflecting a response rate of 90.9 %. The study reveals that altruistic and biospheric values significantly influence environmental concerns, supporting VBN theory. Additionally, environmental attitudes and perceived behav-ioral control positively affected intentions toward green energy, promoting pro-environmental actions. Notably, environmental risk moderated the relationship between subjective norms and green energy intentions, indicating that it can influence public acceptance. The willingness to pay (WTP) for a protection fund post-geothermal construction decreased from NT$1,262.2 to NT$1,133.5 per year. These findings emphasize the importance of public opin-ion in shaping sustainable energy policies in Taiwan.