The Clinic has drawn on earlier research published in Energy Policy, Sources of Opposition to Renewable Energy Projects in the United States, prepared by Lawrence Susskind, Jungwoo Chun, Alexander Gant, Chelsea Hodgkins, Jessica Cohen, and Sarah Lohmar.
This study examines why many large-scale renewable energy projects in the U.S. are delayed, blocked, or cancelled despite increasing economic viability. Drawing on 53 case studies across 28 states, it identifies the key social, political, and institutional factors that continue to hinder project development.
Some key findings:
Nearly half of studied projects were permanently cancelled, while many others faced significant delays
Opposition is rarely driven by a single factor, with over 79% of cases involving multiple overlapping concerns
Common sources of opposition include land value impacts and environmental concerns
Conflicts often stem from perceived inequities in public participation and lack of stakeholder inclusion
Failure to adequately consult Tribal nations is a major and distinct source of conflict
Early, meaningful engagement with communities can significantly reduce delays and opposition
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