As part of the JustWind4All project, a new study was just published in the journal Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews!
Participatory approaches and social innovations are essential for creating more sustainable renewable energy projects. However, there is still limited understanding of how different methods of community involvement and the use of social innovations can enhance the inclusivity and sustainability of wind energy projects. This study examined how participation and social innovations influence fairness and sustainability in wind energy. The research analyzed 312 wind energy projects worldwide, 209 of which were identified as social innovation initiatives.
One of the conclusions was that not all participation methods are equally effective. Projects led by social innovation initiatives tend to be more inclusive, transparent, and empowering for communities. They are also more likely to uphold key principles of energy justice, such as shared responsibility, equal access to information, and opportunities for meaningful decision-making. However, the study also found significant variations between initiatives.
Practices which lack inclusivity, and transparency and prevent citizens from influencing projects, are often supported by institutional actors, including governments. Thus, the role of energy constitutions (i.e., institutionalised processes, policy, rules and structures) in limiting fairer participatory practices is significant.
This research offers practical guidance for policymakers, developers, and communities working to make renewable energy projects fairer and more sustainable. For a deeper dive into these findings and their implications, read the full study [here].
