Spatial analysis of photovoltaic adoption in urban settings: A case study of Amsterdam

• Untapped solar PV potential indicates missed opportunities for clean, fair energy. • PV uptake in Amsterdam is clustered, shaped by urban form, policy, and demographics. • Context-based policy interventions can ensure equitable and widespread PV adoption. • A mixed-methods approach enables a comprehensive understanding of the PV trends. As urban areas face increasing energy demands and the challenges of climate change, the adoption of photovoltaic (PV) systems is crucial for enhancing energy security and promoting sustainable development. This study investigates the spatial distribution and temporal trends of PV adoption in Amsterdam from 2016 to 2024, and identifies the factors and barriers influencing the adoption. The study uses spatial autocorrelation analysis to understand the role of location in PV uptake in Amsterdam. Then, it employs regression analyses to examine how building and household characteristics relate to PV adoption dynamics. The findings reveal distinct spatial patterns, with high adoption concentrations in specific neighborhoods, often linked to favorable socio-economic and infrastructural conditions. Conversely, other areas exhibit lower adoption rates, indicating barriers related to urban density, building constraints, and lagging uptake in multi-unit dwellings. Additionally, demographic factors, including the prevalence of younger populations, single-person households, and families without children, are identified as critical factors influencing PV adoption. Overall, it is evident that the PV distribution in Amsterdam is clustered and not random, being influenced by urban structure, socio-economic conditions, and existing policies. These outcomes highlight the need for targeted interventions to overcome adoption barriers and ensure equitable access to sustainable energy solutions. This study’s contributions are a granular empirical analysis of the PV adoption dynamics in Amsterdam and localized actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners, fostering a more sustainable urban energy future.