A STUDY ON THE CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR TOWARDS THE SOLAR ENERGY DEVICES IN RAJAKKAD GRAMA PANCHAYATH,IDUKKI DISTRICT

Solar energy is radiant light and heat from the sun that is harness using a range of ever- evolving technologies such as solar heating, photovoltaic, solar thermal energy, solar thermal energy, solar architecture, molten salt power plants and artificial photosynthesis. Solar energy is a highly delectable source of electricity.This study aims to study the awareness and satisfaction level of customers towards the solar energy device available in the market and the attitude towards the products. The study also focuses the various factors that influence the customers to choose the solar energy devices over electrical devices even they are comparatively cheap. The study of customer’s behavior towards the acceptance of solar energy product with special reference to Rajakkad grama panchayath of idukki district , Kerala state is relevant because the study will help for future development of the area and place a major role for determining the standard of living and economic growth of people there and the benefits and problems of rural people by installing the solar energy products. This study found that most of the respondents monthly income lies between Rs.10000 to Rs.20000 and have their own house to live..Most of the respondents are non- governmental employees and entrepreneurs and get information about solar energy devices from mobile phone and installed hot water and photovoltaic solar energy devices.Majority of the respondents think that renewable source of energy is the main attractive factor about solar energy devices and use them for less than one year.Majority of the respondents reason for choosing solar device is cost saving and are satisfied with their usage.Though majority of the respondents facing problem of solar devices usage at night, they are satisfied with solar energy devices reducing electricity bills.The highest agreement is for solar energy being a reliable power source in Rajakkad Grama panchayath of Idukki district.