Public Engagement in Electricity Network Development: A Case Study of the Beauly–Denny Project in Scotland

Wenche Tobiasson, Christina Beestermöller and Tooraj Jamasb

Cambridge Working Papers in Economics from Faculty of Economics, University of Cambridge

Abstract: Ambitious renewable energy targets and an aging infrastructure necessitate a substantial upgrading and expansion of the electricity transmission networks around Europe and beyond. Although vital for the functioning of the economy, grid development projects are often met by public opposition, which increase costs and lengthy planning processes. The current planning processes have proven ineffective at resolving the conflicts among stakeholders, indicating the need for a new approach. We analyse these issues from an Economic perspective, outlining the economic characteristics of transmission developments and public engagement. We identify previously overlooked features of the planning process that are contributing to the rise in conflicts, public opposition and prolonged project realisation. The Scottish Beauly-Denny high voltage transmission development is discussed in detail and our findings indicate a need for increased engagement with local communities at an earlier stage of planning. Trust between communities, developers and government is important for future negotiations and can be achieved through transparency, specific education and set guidelines for stakeholder engagement in the planning process.

Keywords: Electricity transmission; public engagement; property rights (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D23 L94 L98 P48 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2015-04-21
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-ene, nep-net and nep-ppm
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Working Paper: Public Engagement in Electricity Network Development: A Case Study of the Beauly–Denny Project in Scotland (2015)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cam:camdae:1511

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