Commercial-scale solar PV and wind turbine renewable energy projects sometimes encounter significant public opposition that delays or halt projects. In Virginia, as elsewhere, this is occurring more frequently as larger projects are proposed. We are applied researchers committed to finding ways to more fairly and efficiently site the many large-scale renewable facilities our Commonwealth and nation needs to address climate change. We are developing the Sustainable Renewable Energy Siting approach to show how commercial-scale projects can be sited so they improve the environment where they are sited, are socially acceptable, and are profitable. We are developing and testing meaningful stakeholder engagement methods to find “win-win” solutions for developers, communities, and the environment.  Communities that do not want commercial-scale renewable energy facilities can have their wishes respected – and communities that do want projects can have their interests protected.  

Related projects