Abstract
Coal burning for residential space heating is a major air quality issue in Kazakhstan. To promote switching from polluting coal, a detailed knowledge of drivers and barriers of gasification adoption from residents’ perspectives is crucial. This questionnaire survey research is unique in focusing on the perceptions of residents in Astana, Kazakhstan, as it is currently undergoing fast urbanization. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test complex interrelationships between the underlying driver and barrier categories (constructs). Drivers and barriers were grouped under three and four categories, respectively. The reliability and validity of the measurement model were demonstrated to be good. The structural model identified a number of significant associations. Notably, the Environmental Sustainability & Efficiency driver construct positively impacted Operations & Support and Accessibility & Financial Incentives driver constructs. This driver construct also significantly reduced perceived Environmental & Safety Hazards barrier construct. The model explained significant variance in the Accessibility & Financial Incentives driver construct and the Market Transparency & Payback Uncertainty barrier construct. By empirically exploring these complex relationships, the results offer a holistic understanding of Astana’s gasification program with evidence-based policy advice to capitalize on drivers and overcome barriers for faster natural gas transition.