Building community and policymaker acceptance for wind energy infrastructure
Across the U.S., renewable energy projects are increasingly delayed by local ordinance or zoning issues, interconnection delays, and community opposition. As expanding wind and solar power is critical for meeting rising electricity demand and climate goals, understanding these barriers is essential. This research aims to understand and improve public and stakeholder acceptance of large-scale wind energy projects in the U.S. by studying the factors that influence community perception. Through a series of national and longitudinal surveys, the study will identify strategies for improving stakeholder trust and engagement. By identifying specific project features and public engagement strategies that increase support for wind projects, the findings will equip developers and policymakers with tools to facilitate adoption.