Lawrence Susskind on Wisconsin Public Radio: As solar energy grows, so do conflicts over where to put it

In a recent interview on Wisconsin Public Radio, Lawrence Susskind discussed the growing conflicts surrounding utility-scale solar development and the challenges of deciding where renewable energy infrastructure should be located.

As states work to expand clean energy generation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, solar developers are increasingly seeking large areas of land for utility-scale projects. While many communities support renewable energy goals, disputes often emerge when projects are proposed near residential areas or agricultural land.

During the interview, Susskind explained that opposition to renewable energy projects is frequently driven by more than environmental or aesthetic concerns alone. Conflicts can also arise from distrust in developers, limited public participation, concerns about fairness, and fears that local communities are being excluded from important decisions.

The conversation emphasized the importance of early stakeholder engagement and collaborative problem-solving in renewable energy siting. Rather than waiting for conflict to escalate during formal permitting processes, Susskind argued that developers and policymakers should involve communities earlier and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue.

The interview also highlighted the importance of balancing urgent climate goals with local concerns. Expanding renewable energy infrastructure will require significant land use changes, making community trust and procedural fairness increasingly important components of successful project development.

As solar deployment accelerates nationwide, the discussion illustrates how thoughtful engagement, mediation, and transparent decision-making can help reduce opposition and support more durable clean energy transitions.

Listen to the full interview here.