Evaluation of solar energy by the general directorate of forest-village relations in the south west region of Anatolia

Aim :This study investigated the results of the survey carried out on solar energy systems in 2005, by the General Directorate of Forest-Village Relations (GDoFVA), with the objective of minimizing the consumption of firewood to obtain hot water. Methodology : Data concerning the impact of solar energy systems on forest villages was obtained by means of a face-to-face survey and 629 questionnaires, conducted in 152 forest villages ofAntalya, Burdur and Isparta provinces, located in the Western Mediterranean Region of Turkey. Frequency distributions and the percentage of statements were assessed using Chi-square and simple correlation analysis methods. Results : The General Directorate of Forest-Village Relations, (GDoFVA), stated that use of solar energy systems, decreased the consumption of firewood by 60-70% in forest villages. In contrast, the results of the current study showed that forest villages of the Western Mediterranean Region had saved firewood in the region of 20-30% by using SES. Interpretation : The average consumption of firewood per household in the forest villages of the Western Mediterranean Region is 11.74 stere per annum. If the saving of firewood was found to be 30%, then the average amount of firewood saved per household was 3.2 stere per annum. The saving of firewood using solar energy systems was estimated approximately 336,042 TL annually, according to the market prices for households. On the other hand, the solar energy systems practices do suggest support that is successful social enhance practice and economic additive. The practice has ensured a significant social development in forest villagers.