Presentations

Abstract

Within the framework of wind energy deployment, social acceptance emerges as a critical determinant of project success. Beyond technical and economical viability, the degree of public support can significantly influence project timelines, cost efficiency, and mitigation of risks throughout the entire project’s life cycle. Recognizing the relevance of incorporating social and human dimensions in project-design, we launched a pioneering initiative within the business sector, a Citizen Observatory. Implemented for four consecutive years in Spain, the Citizen Observatory is a survey that gathers first-hand data on social acceptance of wind technology and its perceived impacts. This initiative strengthens decision-making capacity within the sector by aligning development strategies with the concerns and priorities of local territories. Given that data is updated on an annual basis, the survey questions are continuously adapted to reflect Spain’s evolving social and environmental context. For example, amid the current increasingly frequent extreme weather events, our research examines the role that wind energy can play in addressing climate change challenges. This adaptive approach increases the relevance of our findings, allowing us to engage with communities with sensitivity, remain responsive to local circumstances, and capture yearly shifts in perception.  To guarantee rigor and precision, the survey’s methodology is developed alongside a specialized consulting firm and analyzed by a public affairs office. In addition to this quantitative data, we complement our work with qualitative research conducted in collaboration with an multidisciplinary academic chair. Drawing from multiple sources, we are able to produce a diagnostic overview of regional acceptance of wind energy. Therefore, these tools help us identify provinces with the highest levels of support, those with greater resistance, and the specific project impacts that communities perceive most positively and negatively, enabling data-driven decisions within the sector.