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Balcony solar panels are popular and widespread in most EU Member States, except in Hungary, where their use is currently banned. However, the lifting of this strict ban is expected to be approved in the near future. The aim of this research is to investigate which factors influence residents’ intention to use balcony solar panels in Hungary and how strong these impacts are.

Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2) is applied to predict which factors may influence residents’ behavioral intention to use this technology. Six components are tested: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation and price value. Data were gathered in Hungary in 2023 using an online survey. A quota sampling method was employed during the data-collection process.

Our results confirm the importance of all components except effort expectancy. In addition to the economic benefits that can be achieved, citizens consider energy independence and a sense of freedom to be important in the adoption of such systems.

Despite the large share of positive responses (expressed intention) that is identified, a gap between intention and action can be expected.

To increase the rate of acceptance, transparent regulation, simplified administration and the application of nudges may be crucially important. However, the widespread use of balcony solar systems is hindered by the lack of a modern, energy-efficient building stock, emphasizing the urgency of deep renovation in the Hungarian household sector.

This research is the first to use the UTAUT2 model to analyze the technology acceptance of balcony solar systems in a late-adopter country.

Purpose: This study explores the relationship between energy use and human development, specifically focusing on Jordan’s household sector. The purpose is to understand the implications for achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and clean energy).

Need for the study: Given the global challenge of achieving sustainable development, it is crucial to investigate the dynamics between energy use and human development. Understanding the factors influencing this relationship is essential for formulating effective strategies and policies.

Methodology: This study focuses on Jordan and analyzes data from 2008 and 2017 using the theory of energy ladder and energy stacking. It examines the effects of household energy use on human well-being through socio-economic and environmental factors such as income, health, and education expenditure.

Findings: The results indicate a strong association between household energy expenditure and the human development index in Jordan. However, this relationship is likely to be indirect, with household energy use influencing welfare through its effects on income, health, and education expenditure. Improving the quality of education, increasing access to universal health services, and promoting income growth are key factors for enhancing human well-being.

Practical implications: The findings highlight the importance of considering social, economic, and environmental factors in achieving a sustainable and equitable energy transition. Policy recommendations are formulated based on the study’s insights, aiming to address the specific challenges and opportunities in Jordan and facilitate the realization of SDG7.