Manila: A recent Pulse Asia survey showed that 93 percent of Filipinos believe that rising electricity demand makes affordable rooftop solar necessary. "Nearly all Filipinos agree that the government should make rooftop solar more affordable," Pulse Asia said in a news release on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the survey results showed strong public support for policies that can help make renewable energy more accessible, lower electricity costs, and strengthen the country's energy security. Nearly all, or 97 percent, of respondents expressed concern about current energy challenges, while 77 percent recognized the country's dependency on imported oil, coal, and natural gas.

Over half, or 66 percent, of respondents identified expanding renewable energy as the most effective approach, with making rooftop solar affordable emerging as the highest priority among renewable energy measures. The survey also highlighted that affordability is the biggest hurdle to wider adoption.

"While public support for rooftop solar is high, Filipinos believe that lower costs, better access to information, and affordable financing are needed to make the technology accessible to more consumers," Pulse Asia said. Among the respondents, 91 percent stated that widespread adoption is viable if affordable financing options are made available.

The majority, or 85 percent, of respondents also view rooftop solar as a necessity rather than a luxury, the survey added.