| Summary: | This paper is one of a series resulting from institutional analysis
of photovoltaic (PV) acceptance. The case studies reported here involve
use of solar thermal technologies in various residential settings. All of
the projects are part of the DOE-HUD Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration
Program. This program provides grants to developers to prompt them to use
this innovation. Each of the five cases illustrates one or more institu-
tional forces which influence the acceptance of solar energy in the resi-
dential sector. Friends Community is an instance of developer involvement
for reasons other than profit, and the way in which other factors (such as
designers and consumers) react to such housing development. Reservoir
Hills Solar Houses illustrates the process of entry by new development firms,
the role of public agencies in encouraging various forms of housing and the
problems of using product innovations without adequately developed industry
support infrastructures. Project Solar for Indiana illustrates the import-
ance of supporting institutional networks, in this case the homebuilders
association, the state government and key individuals, who play mediating and
legitimating roles in solar acceptance. Solar in California discusses public
efforts at a city level -- Santa Clara, a county level -- San Diego, and the
state level in what is generally regarded as the state most active in turning
to forms of solar energy. Finally, PNM/AMREP illustrates the process of large
development corporation decision making, and the manner in which an investor-
owned utility is shifting its orientation of energy provision.
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