NIMBY Response to Wind Farm SitesNot in my

backyard!

Chris ConwaySOS324

• Development of renewable energy projects are fashionable, a win-win situation for all stakeholders, and garner a high level of social acceptance

RIGHT?

ell, not exactly!W

Overall, public support is high. In principle, most people have nothing against wind energy – yet . . .

The subjective becomes the objective

‘Just don’t put them here’ has become a common rallying cry

As with many infrastructure and public good projects that originally draw large NIMBY opposition, no clear cut solution exists.

U-Shaped Development of Attitudes

Palm Springs / San Gorgonio Pass

Opposition

• Public outrage - small minority• Law suits – didn’t work

Acceptance

• If you can’t beat them, join them – “let’s annex”

NOW . . .

PIMBY (Please in My Backyard)

Solutions!

All solutions have to do with education – overcoming fear of the unknown and misinformation

• Direct community involvement• Public input• Seek support from broad and diverse group• Heightened levels of consultation• Utilize successful examples such as Palm Springs