Due diligence and compromise in communication between wind energy developers and communities

Abstract

Wind Energy is a critical issue in our nation and especially in Kansas. In 2010, a team of graduate students under the supervision of Dr. Deborah Ballard-Reisch conducted key informant interviews (KIIs) (n=30) and 9 focus groups (n=88) in three Kansas counties (Butler, Kiowa, and Wabaunsee), drawing on three very different contexts for assessing communication issues surrounding such development. The goal of this secondary analysis of research data is to delve more deeply into the specific aspect of the relationships among consultation and information dissemination and community acceptance and involvement, as well as to explore the dichotomy of the perceptions of these issues for decision makers and community members. Data are analyzed using inductive, qualitative thematic analysis.