If Scotland is going to meet its net zero targets, it needs to build a lot more renewable energy projects. That much is beyond dispute. What remains contentious is how developers and communities interact during the planning process, and whether the consultation that takes place is genuine two way communication or simply a box ticking exercise designed to give the appearance of engagement.
Two experts in the field, Scott McCallum from the energy consenting team at Shepherd and Wedderburn and Tori McCusker from community engagement specialist Facilitating Change, have been discussing what actually works. Their insights, based on years of experience navigating the often fractious relationship between developers and local residents, are worth paying attention to.
One of the most significant developments is the use of online visualisation tools that allow people to enter a postcode and see exactly what a proposed wind farm or solar array would look like from their property. “You can fly through the project to get a really accurate view of its size and appearance,” McCusker explained. That kind of transparency is far more useful than an artist’s impression on a poster board at a village hall.
The format of public consultations matters too. McCusker said her team tries to “steer away from more formal public meetings where there’s very much a them and us energy” in favour of meeting people where they already are: community events, galas, agricultural shows. Draft engagement plans are shared with community councils for input before being finalised.
One of the biggest misconceptions McCallum identified is the idea that communities have a veto over developments. They do not. Community feedback is one of many material considerations in the planning process. That reality can be frustrating for residents, but being upfront about it from the beginning is better than allowing false expectations to build. The renewable energy industry in Scotland will only grow. Getting the community engagement right is not a luxury. It is a necessity.