When wind power is rejected: Sámi self-determination and restorative energy justice in Arctic Norway

Energy justice theory offers a framework for guiding a fair green transition; however, when applied in decision-making, its principles can conflict, particularly in multicultural societies with diverse values. This paper examines such tensions in Arctic Norway by analysing the justifications provided by energy authorities for rejecting three wind power projects due to potential impacts on Indigenous livelihoods. It also explores the role of Indigenous self-determination arrangements in the wind power process. Drawing on qualitative analyses of wind power application documents, correspondence, consultation minutes, site visits, initial licensing decisions, and appeal outcomes, the study presents three key findings. Firstly, cumulative impacts on reindeer husbandry are central to permit rejections in reindeer herding areas, despite a lack of consensus on how to assess them. Secondly, licensing decisions made on appeal explicitly engage with international legal sources for Indigenous rights and consider the unique situations of reindeer herders. In contrast, initial licensing decisions tend to be influenced by national energy goals, often relying on mitigation measures as a panacea for coexistence between reindeer and wind power. Thirdly, Indigenous actors lack the certainty of actual influence over licensing outcomes despite formal participation mechanisms. The paper argues for the foregrounding of a restorative justice approach within energy justice theory to mediate tensions between what is deemed beneficial for the public and what is just for Indigenous peoples. It concludes with a proposal for a proactive form of Indigenous self-determination to ensure the incorporation of Indigenous perspectives in energy decision-making processes.