Green vs. Green vs. Green: Implications of alternative views on sustainable wind energy in Kansas

Abstract

In the 19th century, windmills dotted the Kansas plains. In the 21st century, a new kind of windmill is emerging large imposing turbines not for pumping water, but for generating electricity. As demand for clean renewable energy sources increases exponentially, important questions remain about the implementation and long-term sustainability of wind energy initiatives in the state of Kansas. Environmental conservation and equitable stakeholder compensation concerns pose challenging counter-claims that must be reconciled. The juxtaposition of green (clean renewable) energy demand versus green environmental stewardship versus green equitable economic consideration is the focus of this qualitative study. Utilizing key informant interviews, focus groups, and relevant public information sources, the authors coded and analyzed data via inductive thematic analysis, as described by Boyatzis. Three thematic elements emerged (i.e. the three greens) and were then considered deductively within the context of wind energy development in three Kansas counties: Butler, Kiowa, and Wabaunsee. Results and potential implications of these dynamics for wind energy development in Kansas are discussed.