Hello fellow solar enthusiasts! I’d like to talk to you today about an insightful study which sheds light on some of the perceptions and challenges around large-scale solar projects in the U.S. This research is particularly relevant to solar companies that are seeking to expand their operations and it is equally important for those of you thinking about investing in solar panels for your home.
Conducted by the Berkeley Lab along with Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, this study is based on interviews with residents, developers, and policy makers, outlining their views on seven large-scale solar projects. These are ground-mount photovoltaic projects, boasting a solar array for home and community use, each with a power output of 1MWdc or more.
This research aims to bridge the existing information gap regarding the acceptance of large-scale solar projects among rural Americans. On one side, there is a substantial endorsement for such initiatives, while on the other, increasing local opposition can lead to delayed and even cancelled projects. This dichotomy clearly stresses the need for data and dialogue to improve the situation.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Wood Mackenzie predict that the solar market could triple by 2028 in the U.S., reaching a staggering installed solar capacity of 380GW. Undoubtedly, such progress will require support from local communities. Despite them having concerns over blocked views, noise, and environmental impacts among others.
Getting right to the crux of the matter, the study derives two fundamental enquiries: identification of the most common concerns residents have about large-scale projects, and potential strategies to enhance the acceptance of these solar developments.
It appears from the study that the planning processes and local impacts of considerable solar projects are a major source of concern among residents. The seven examined sites, representing a range of regions, ownership structures, and ecosystems, brought forth these apprehensions. In particular, local residents and officials expressed their grievances over inadequate information and the lack of influence they have on project design.
The study also offers some recommendations to allay these concerns. Developers need to initiate direct engagement with local officials and the community members early on, and maintain regular and in-person contact throughout development, operation, and decommissioning stages of the project. This interaction needs to step beyond the confines of public meetings and town halls, to a more personalized and interactive level, where residents have a meaningful role in shaping the project’s design.
Another interesting suggestion is to engage third-party local intermediaries for better liaison between the community, local officials, and the developers. The authors emphasize the importance of ensuring that residents are well-informed about both the benefits and burdens associated with the approval or restriction of project development.
To sum up, this study provides invaluable insights, especially for solar companies, emphasizing the importance of improved communication and community engagement for successful solar project implementation. By acknowledging and addressing the concerns of local residents and officials, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future powered by the sun.
Original Article: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/01/23/how-large-scale-solar-developers-can-tackle-community-opposition/
