The Potential of Narratives - A Study of Two Wind Energy Projects in Germany

Abstract: Wind energy projects in Germany increasingly struggle to attain local acceptance, therefore, the German energy transition towards renewables is challenged. Research has shown that trust and measures of distributive and procedural justice, especially the information conveyed in wind energy projects, are necessary components to gain community acceptance. At the same time, narratives have been shown to have a positive impact on stakeholder engagement. This research aims to investigate the (elements of) information conveyed in wind energy projects as well as the potentials of and considerations for narratives used in stakeholder engagement in wind energy projects in relation to stakeholders’ acceptance of such projects. Based on a review of the literature on social acceptance in wind energy and on narratives (in stakeholder engagement), semi-structured interviews with stakeholders of two different wind energy projects in Germany were conducted. Part of the gathered data was used to identify relevant (elements of) information conveyed in stakeholder engagement in the aforementioned wind energy projects. Then such information further were used to complement findings from the literature resulting in a comprehensive list of information. Moreover, the other part was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis to understand respondents’ perceptions of narratives in the given context. This revealed examples and potentials of as well as considerations for narratives used in this context (e.g. (un-)suitability of content for narratives, the use of simple and understandable language fitting the target-audience). The results indicate that narratives offer the potentials to reunite divided communities, foster interaction and disseminate information more effectively thereby contributing to change a prevailing mood that is potentially characterized by distrust, fear, envy and rejection. These findings extend the existing literature on attaining local social/community acceptance as well as conducting effective stakeholder engagement. At the same time, they may serve as guidance for practitioners working in this context.