Recurring issues and concerns in wind energy project Environmental Assessments: analysis of western Canada
Date
2021-04-26
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Publisher
ORCID
Type
Thesis
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
Investment in renewable energy is essential to a low carbon future. Wind energy is Canada’s fastest growing renewable energy sector. Although not as disputed as fossil fuel-based energy projects, such as oil sands mines or pipelines, wind energy projects can be controversial. Understanding the typical issues and concerns that emerge when wind energy projects are proposed is important to manage the transaction costs for renewable energy projects. This research examined 16 environmental assessments (EAs) for wind energy projects in western Canada to determine the recurring issues and concerns raised by government reviewers, project interveners, and other affected interests when projects are tabled. A total of 50 different issues were identified. These were raised 848 times in EA comments and submissions. Although variability existed in the number and diversity of issues by jurisdiction and by project, depending on location and size, concerns about land use, impacts on human well-being, impacts on natural ecosystems, and economic opportunity and impact, represented 79% of all issues and concerns. The majority of issues reflect project-specific impacts and concerns, but many issues including impacts to other land tenure holders or licensees (such as other utilities and industries) are issues that are beyond the scope and scale of what can be resolved at the time wind energy projects are proposed. Understanding and addressing the recurrent issues and concerns raised when wind energy projects are proposed and identifying and off-ramping the bigger issues to the planning and strategic process, are important conditions for energy transition.
Description
Keywords
Wind energy, environmental assessment, recurring project and strategic issues
Citation
Degree
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Department
Geography and Planning
Program
Geography