Why does community ownership foster greater acceptance of renewable projects? Investigating energy justice explanations

This study by the University of St Andrews(UK) investigates why community ownership influences the social acceptability of onshore wind projects in Scotland. Specifically, it focuses on the interrelation  between energy justice dimensions (fair involvement, fair distribution of benefits, and perceived impacts of wind turbines) to determine whether these aspects are interrelated, and whether different ownership structures (community, shared or private ownership) shape  these relationships and affect public acceptance. Examining different ownership models, the research finds that projects with community or shared ownership gain stronger local support as they promote fair involvement in decision-making, more equitable distribution of benefits, and more positive perceptions of impacts. The findings suggest that inclusive ownership structures ultimately build trust and reduce local opposition.

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