Renewable energy faces mounting local opposition

By Andi Anderson

Across the United States, communities are increasingly challenging the development of renewable energy projects, including wind and solar farms. While states, corporations, and the federal government push for clean energy goals, many local areas are seeing fierce opposition to these projects.

This opposition stems from various concerns, including property rights, farmland loss, environmental impact, and the aesthetics of wind turbines and solar fields.

For instance, in Ohio's Crawford County, the local government imposed a 10-year ban on wind projects after heated debates among community members, ultimately upheld by a local referendum.

Similar debates are happening across the country, from rural Tennessee to the deserts of Nevada, where communities are questioning the suitability and impact of renewable energy facilities in their areas.

This resistance has led to many regions enacting bans, moratoriums, or other restrictions on renewable projects.

Experts attribute this opposition partly to a lack of early community engagement by developers. Renewable projects are often introduced without ample notice, causing concern over property values, quality of life, and environmental impact.

The Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School reports a rise in local policies that restrict renewable facilities, highlighting an increase in "not in my backyard" sentiments. Additionally, misinformation and political polarization play roles in shaping public opinion, sometimes making it difficult for developers to gain community trust.

Meanwhile, some advocates of renewable energy believe the industry should focus more on explaining the economic benefits of these projects, such as job creation and local tax revenue.

Developers are encouraged to engage communities earlier in the process to build support and reduce conflict.

With the pressing goal of decarbonizing the U.S. energy grid by 2035, the future of renewable energy development depends on balancing national goals with local concerns and ensuring clear communication with communities.

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