A Perception-based Model for Smart Grid Adoption of Distribution System Operators - An Empirical Analysis

Smart grid technologies (SGT) comprise technologies from various domains, among others information systems (IS). IS can contribute decisively to upgrade the nowadays electromechanically controlled energy systems to electronically controlled networks (Watson, Boudreau and Chen 2010). However, to date the organizational adoption of SGT is rather limited. Thus, we developed a model based upon the technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework (Tornatzky and Fleischer 1990) and validated the model based on data collected from 180 German distribution system operators (DSOs). The model explains .62 of the variance in adoption. Our findings suggest that the technological and regulatory context variables are only minor drivers while the organizational context variables have a substantial impact on the adoption decision. Also the control variables firm size and number of industry clients were found to be significant determinants. The paper’s findings will help refining researchers’ understanding of organizational technology adoption and will be useful for stakeholders interested in SGT-diffusion.