Presentations

Abstract

Public opposition remains a significant barrier to wind energy deployment across Europe. While previous studies relied on survey data or hypothetical scenarios limited research has examined actual formal objections submitted during real-world planning processes. This study analyzes third-party appeals to wind turbine projects in the Republic of Ireland, examining submissions to An Bord Pleanála (ABP), Ireland's national planning body. We quantified specific reasons for appeal, their frequency, and the number of stakeholders raising each issue, providing comprehensive categorization of public objections. Our methodology draws directly from formal planning submissions, capturing authentic public concerns during actual decision-making processes. Our analysis identifies visual impact and ecological preservation as the most prevalent concerns. Recent Strategic Infrastructure Development cases show greater emphasis on health and safety concerns, including noise and shadow flicker. Logistic regression analysis reveals that peatland-related objections significantly reduce approval likelihood, whereas water and wildlife concerns are positively associated with approval. Project scale and objection volume are key factors, with larger projects increasing decision times and group objection numbers negatively affecting planning officer recommendations.  These findings provide actionable insights for wind energy stakeholders. Developers can increase success likelihood by addressing environmental concerns through targeted mitigation measures and tailoring designs to regulatory expectations. Results highlight objection complexity and underscore the need for nuanced planning reforms. Understanding which concerns correlate with approval enables strategic community engagement and informed application development, supporting more effective wind energy deployment strategies.