Social license and consultation criteria for community wind projects

Nova Scotia has an aggressive energy strategy which if successful will result in 40% of electricity generated from renewable sources by 2020. A significant portion of this target, 100 MW generating capacity, is to be met using large small-scale wind projects developed by community residents and cooperatives. The expected community participation prompts a renewed interest in, and importance of social acceptance of wind power development. This paper identifies important criteria that should be considered relating to community consultation and essential components for the development of consultation guidelines, which will ultimately impact social acceptance of community scale renewable energy projects.

► A high level of consultation and early communication is preferred for community scale projects.
► Social acceptance criteria have been identified that are common with large scale projects.
► Age and awareness of renewable energy improve the acceptance of community projects.
► Environment and community benefits such as employment are key drivers for enhanced social acceptance.