Integrating Local Stakeholders in Energy Transitions: An Impact Assessment Model for Wind Energy Projects

The global change towards renewable energy presents significant challenges, particularly for local communities in developing countries. Although many of these countries have adopted various clean energy initiatives, numerous wind power projects have faced considerable delays and implementation obstacles. Key issues include conflicts with local inhabitants, environmental licensing bottlenecks, and difficulties integrating projects into national electricity grids. These setbacks highlight misaligned stakeholder interests and the lack of robust tools for impact assessment. This paper introduces a multi-criteria decision-making model designed to evaluate the sustainability impacts of wind power megaprojects, using a case study from Colombia. The model integrates stakeholder perspectives and assesses projects across four dimensions: environmental, social, economic, and institutional. Its application demonstrates the model’s effectiveness in capturing complex social dynamics and improving the understanding of stakeholder concerns. It offers a structured framework to support more inclusive and informed decision-making processes. This study proposes a practical tool for enhancing the planning and governance of renewable energy initiatives, the stakeholder-oriented multidimensional assessment framework designed to evaluate social, economic and environmental challenges associated with wind power projects. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating these dimensions into impact assessments to foster stronger alignment with local communities and increase the likelihood of project success in the energy transition.