SOCIAL ACCEPTABILITY OF RENEWABLE ENERGY: EXPLORING COMMUNITY MEMBERS’ PREFERENCES FOR ATTRIBUTES OF ENERGY PROJECTS IN THE EL ZANGARRO COMMUNITY, MEXICO
Date
2025-02-25
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ORCID
0000-0002-7882-0098
Type
Thesis
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
The primary objective of this study is to assess the social acceptability and community preferences for renewable energy projects in the rural community of El Zangarro, Mexico, using a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE). The research addresses four central questions: What is the community’s perception of sustainability? How does this perception align with the community’s priorities? How do community members evaluate the benefits of alternative energy projects? What trade-offs is the community willing to accept for these projects?
The study finds that the community perceives sustainability as an important factor, with most respondents recognizing it as essential to addressing local challenges, such as water scarcity, garbage management, pollution and unreliable energy access. Additionally, community members demonstrated that their notion of sustainability aligns closely with their priorities, particularly in improving living conditions through environmental management and financial benefits.
In evaluating the benefits of alternative energy projects, the results show that the community prioritizes projects that deliver long-term environmental benefits while offering significant financial advantages. Solar panels and biodigesters were highly favoured, as they address critical community needs like energy security and waste management. Regarding trade-offs, the community is willing to accept moderate cost increases if the projects provide clear benefits that improve sustainability and living conditions. However, cost and risk were critical factors in decision-making. Respondents preferred solutions that balance affordability with manageable risks and high financial and environmental benefits, particularly for solar panels and biodigesters. This research contributes to the literature on rural energy transitions by providing empirical evidence of how community perceptions of sustainability influence renewable energy adoption. It highlights the complex interplay between financial, environmental, and social factors in shaping the acceptability of renewable energy projects. It also could provide a replicable framework for assessing community preferences in rural contexts in Mexico. The findings offer important insights for policymakers and practitioners, emphasizing the need to align renewable energy interventions with local values and ensure cost-effective, inclusive implementation. This study significantly advances sustainable energy transitions in rural communities by considering local priorities.
Description
Keywords
DCE, community, preference, trade-off, sustainability, energy transition, priorities, solar panels, biodigester, WTP.
Citation
Degree
Master of Environment and Sustainability (M.E.S.)
Department
School of Environment and Sustainability
Program
Environment and Sustainability