Constructive conflict in controversial energy projects
Themes: Social Impact, Energy
Proof of principle
A TRL is a measure to indicate the matureness of a developing technology. When an innovative idea is discovered it is often not directly suitable for application. Usually such novel idea is subjected to further experimentation, testing and prototyping before it can be implemented. The image below shows how to read TRL’s to categorise the innovative ideas.
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Why?
In decision-making procedures on controversial energy projects, formal assessment tools may fail to include all relevant values. The conflicts that arise can, if addressed well, be constructive in identifying these values.
How?
We conduct in-depth analysis in past and running energy projects of how initiators and developers interact with local actors, municipalities, NGOs, and residents. We study the role of formal decision-making procedures in these interactions and reflect on the legitimacy of their approaches.
When?
Through collaboration with partners we develop and test methods on how to use rather than avoid conflicts. These methods are being communicated and validated in several workshops and professional and academic papers.
Dr. ir. Eefje Cuppen