Broadening the social acceptance of wind energy – An Integrated Acceptance Model

To foster the green energy transition, local acceptance of wind energy is highly relevant. Since simple solutions like setback distances do not reflect the issue complexity, we incorporated acceptance factors from social science and interdisciplinary research in an Integrated Acceptance Model (IAM). To capture impact differences of the acceptance factors, in Study 1, residents of three operating wind farms in Germany (N = 158) were surveyed. Five most relevant acceptance factors were derived by a regression analysis: economic effects, impacts on residents and nature, attitudes towards the energy transition, trust in local actors and the planning process as well as social norms substantially explained local acceptance (R2 = 0.76). Next, in Study 2 the IAM was validated in an early stage, informal planning process in a Bavarian region (N = 92). In accord with Study 1, the IAM explained the variance in local acceptance comprehensively (R2 = 0.78). Moreover, a consistent impact of economic effects, attitudes towards the energy transition, expected effects on residents and nature as well as social norms was observed. While social norms played a pronounced role in Study 2, trust only related to the acceptance in Study 1. The IAM seems to capture the overall relevant acceptance categories, which can be used as guidance to create a sustainable green energy transition.