Examining the possible connections between renewable energy sources and online communication using primary research method

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18531/sme.vol.11.no.2.pp.29-42

Keywords:

renewable energy, online communication, energy crisis, consumer’s attitude

Abstract

In recent years, the role of renewable energy sources has become a central issue both in the energy sector and public life. This shift can be attributed to geopolitical and economic events, as well as long-term environmental goals. The advance of renewable energy sources has been underway since the 1990s, yet in Hungary, it has only come into the focus of attention and interest in the past few years. This surge in interest is primarily due to skyrocketing energy prices resulting from the energy crisis, but other factors also play a role, such as the currently unyielding interest in "green movements," which have activated public life as much as the erratic energy expenditures have. Our research examines the connection between the energy crisis and the demand for renewable energy sources, as well as analysing the online communication touchpoints, opportunities, and challenges involved, using primary research methods. The research questionnaire was completed by a total of 418 individuals. Our research aimed to identify the internal driving forces affecting consumers' attitudes towards renewable energy sources, and to explore which tools leading to online communication could be used to shape the population's preconceptions and attitudes. According to the results, a significant portion of the sample stated that the energy crisis influenced their decision to opt for renewable energy. More than half of the respondents believe that the energy crisis has made society more open to renewables, and a large part of them, in addition to getting informed about the topic through social media platforms, also follow news and current events related to alternative energy sources through some form of online media consumption. Furthermore, they would be interested in other options that could offer an opportunity to expand their knowledge.

Author Biographies

  • András Szeberényi, Budapest Metropolitan University

    associate professor
    e-mail: aszeberenyi@metropolitan.hu

  • Ágnes Fűrézs, Budapest Metropolitan University

    MSc-Student
    e-mail: fureszagi@gmail.com

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Published

2024-06-10

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