Title: Experience with and strategies for public involvement in offshore wind projects

Authors: Hans Christian Sorensen, Lars Kjeld Hansen, Karin Hammarlund, Jens H. Larsen

Addresses: SPOK Consult, Blegdamsvej 4, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark. SPOK Consult, Blegdamsvej 4, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark. Hammarlund Consulting, Ravetorp 1501, SE-268 90 Svalov, Sweden. KMEK - Copenhagen Environment and Energy Office, Blegdamsvej 4B, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark

Abstract: The paper describes and analyses different models for public involvement, based on experience from offshore projects in Denmark (especially Middelgrunden) and Sweden (Karlskrona Vindkraft Offshore). The public likely to be concerned by offshore wind energy projects must be informed and consulted as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). However, as member states individually define details regarding information and consulting, different approaches are possible. It is concluded that although active public involvement is a time and resource requiring challenge, it is to be recommended as it may lead to mitigation of general protests, blocking or delaying projects and increasing future confidence, acceptance and support in relation to the coming offshore wind farms in Europe.

Keywords: public involvement; offshore projects; Denmark; Sweden; wind.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESD.2002.002353

International Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development, 2002 Vol.1 No.4, pp.327-336

Published online: 16 Jul 2003 *

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