Policy Brief: Build public trust: Six factors for increasing wind power acceptance

Abstract

In the European Union, efforts to streamline permitting for renewable energy projects, such as the Wind Power Action Plan (2023), aim to accelerate the transition to net-zero carbon energy systems. Although wind power is widely recognized as an important form of clean renewable energy, the rapid deployment of wind farms can lead to concerns, conflicts, and opposition within local communities. The changing political landscape and regulations in the European Union and globally also contribute to uncertainties about the future in local communities.

This internationally produced policy brief offers an opportunity to share information and experiences on best practices that promote a sustainable and socially acceptable transition to clean energy, including wind power. Acceptance is defined as positive or neutral attitudes towards a wind power project. Six factors contribute to the social acceptance of wind energy projects: 1) impacts on people, 2) impacts on nature, 3) impacts on the economy, 4) trust in the planning process, 5) social norms, and 6) attitudes towards the clean energy transition.