Table 2 Latent variable scales in the PV projects Technical audit with their respective reliability and component items

Appropriateness for energy need

1. Solar project is initiated at the appropriate time. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

2. Location of the solar project is appropriate and feasible. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

3. Area coverage of the solar project is appropriate. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

4. Solar project serves the purpose for which it is provided. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

Adequacy in energy efficiency

1. Energy output of the solar project satisfies the purpose for installation. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

2. Solar project functions efficiently and when it fails repairs come immediately. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

3. Solar project performance is the same with conventional energy powered options. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

4. Experts should mount and maintain such solar projects. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

Sustainability of PV project

1. There is adequate security provided for the solar project. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

2. There have been varying discomforts associated with the installed solar project. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

3. Solar project is expected to have a long life span. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)

4. More installations of such solar project are encouraged. (4-point Likert scale from “Strongly agree” to “Strongly disagree”)