How County Commissioners View Local Renewable Energy Development
GoodPower conducted a multi-method study of county commissioners in the United States about their perceptions of renewable energy development. The study explored the role community members play in commissioners’ stance on decarbonization, and how organizations could help address the challenges commissioners face. The project involved a survey of 66 county commissioners from across the country and in-depth interviews with eight commissioners. Respondents were ideologically diverse but included more self-identified Republicans.
Key Findings
Commissioners aren’t resistant to renewable energy, though support varies by technology and party.
County commissioners are not resistant to renewable energy, though there was slightly more support for solar than wind and some partisan differences.
Commissioners see real economic upside, for their counties and for landowners.
Respondents were excited about renewable energy projects that could generate revenue for their communities. They also saw potential to help farmers keep their land by making money through leasing to renewable energy projects.
Commissioners want to learn from peers, not just hear that renewable energy works.
Commissioners want information from trusted and authentic sources. They explicitly stated they want to learn the “blueprint” from peer communities, and to engage with other commissioners who have navigated clean energy development. They want the “nuts and bolts” of how it all gets done, not just the end outcome.
Commissioners want more technical support and funding for public engagement.
Commissioners also wanted access to more technical expertise to help them understand the impact on their communities, and funds to help with public engagement.