Residents’ perception and attitude toward renewable energy sources in Adamawa State, Nigeria

This study examines residents’ perceptions and attitudes toward renewable energy sources in Adamawa State, Nigeria, with a focus on socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors influencing their views. Employing a mixed-methods research design, quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 348 respondents across the three senatorial districts, while qualitative insights were obtained from semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including community leaders, energy practitioners, government officials, and NGO representatives. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis. Findings reveal that awareness of renewable energy is moderate, and general attitudes are neutral-to-positive, yet actual adoption remains low. Economic constraints, limited technical knowledge, and weak policy implementation were identified as primary barriers, while subsidies, public awareness campaigns, training programs, and multi-stakeholder collaboration were strongly endorsed as solutions. Socio-economic characteristics such as income, education, and occupation significantly influenced perceptions and adoption capacity. The study concludes that while there is substantial potential for renewable energy transition in Adamawa State, structural, financial, and institutional challenges must be addressed to convert awareness and positive attitudes into practical adoption. Recommendations include policy interventions, financial incentives, capacity-building initiatives, and strengthened stakeholder engagement to promote sustainable energy development.