Climate is changing, when will Malta be energy saving? : local attitudes towards renewable sources of energy, and the generating of ideas to aid green energy in Malta

Abstract

Energy and its production have become chief focal points in recent global issues. High emission rates and fluctuating oil prices have instigated the renewable energy revolution. This technology is not only sustainable, but also extremely adaptable, making it open to creative opportunities. In Malta this reform has not arrived yet, which is curious since. Malta needs to attain both energy security and the energy targets imposed by the EU. Hence why is this switch-over so impaired? This study aimed at uncovering the current local attitudes towards renewable sources of energy, alongside ideas generated on the subject, and whether these attitudes are susceptible to change. A qualitative design was employed, and data was gathered through the application of the Six. Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono to two focus groups comprising of either semi-expert or non-expert participants, and via open ended questionnaires carried out with local experts on renewable sources of energy. The main findings suggest a significant gap between semi-expert and non-expert awareness that influences both attitude and. creativity, creating a polarisation caused by pre-existing knowledge. The study illustrates that knowledge, attitudes, and creativity are interrelated and produce differences in perception and ideas. It further outlines the dire need for public education on energy issues, and the barriers that need to be overcome to change current thinking structures to foster a creative culture. This study contributes to the understanding of the influences exerted upon creativity by attitudes and knowledge, and how these three constructs can aid in the local development of renewable sources of energy.