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When renewable developers decide what their community engagement approach will be, they often draw upon the IAP2 spectrum – a well-known device for measuring community participation levels in an infrastructure project.
The left side of the spectrum – best summarised as ‘inform and consult’ – has traditionally been used for smaller projects, which have less potential for community concern; while the right side – which gives communities maximum agency – has often been reserved larger, more impactful, developments.
Kim Mallee of the Community Power Agency , says that, while left side approaches do have their place, right side practices are now considered leading for renewable projects, and encourages developers to involve community members as much as possible.
She says, in today’s climate, people place a high value on how they are engaged, and opportunities to participate in the design process, when dealing with proponents. As a result, developers who empower people in host communities will see better project outcomes.
“Traditionally, some projects have tended to err on consult and inform end of the spectrum. But we know that the majority of people value – and expect – agency throughout all stages of the project. That includes site selection, feasibility, design, planning, approvals, all the way through to constructions, operations and decommissioning,” she said.
“Ultimately, community members want to share their vision for a more prosperous future for their region and its up to projects to help find the partnership opportunities through developing energy projects such as wind or solar farms, transmission line, or pumped hydro.”
Spend time to save time
Ms Mallee says thorough and genuine engagement practices that empower communities can require a greater upfront investment of time, but that the overall process tends to be faster, with fewer hiccups throughout the project lifecycle.
“We have seen time and time again that when community engagement is done authentically and builds trust with the community, it is actually the fastest way for a development to occur.
“You may spend more time upfront, but overall your project comes to completion quicker because you have found mutually agreeable solutions with the host community.”
Navigating transport routes, procurement options and seasonal impacts can also be faster when communities are on board.
“You’re able to jump these hurdles faster with local expertise and understanding,” she added.
A science and an art
Ms Mallee says that, while the evidence around participation levels is clear, the challenge is to inspire a genuine sense of ownership among residents, when bringing largescale infrastructure to communities.
“There is quite a bit of skill involved in this, but it’s really where the success of your community engagement project hinges,” she said.
While exact approaches may vary, Ms Mallee says authentic, two-way communication should always be a starting point.
“This helps win trust from the get-go and brings everyone onto the same page,” she said. “When people feel heard, they feel empowered.”
New government guidelines
Ms Mallee’s advice is consistent with new guidelines, recently released by the Tasmanian Government’s Department of State Growth.
The ‘Guideline for Community Engagement, Benefit Sharing and Local Procurement’ was designed to help coordinate energy expansion and load growth, in line with the state’s renewable energy target.
“The guideline sets clear standards for industry and is a useful tool for community members. It helps them understand what is expected of project proponents for leading practice.”
A growing need to get it right
While Tasmania may be better placed than any other state to meet its own renewable energy demand, its lofty export ambitions will require a large influx of new infrastructure.
With this, comes a need for leading practices around community engagement
Tasmania will need a wealth of new renewable infrastructure projects to meet its goals – some of which are significant in scale.
Further insight
Sharing more on leading practice for community engagement, Kim Mallee will present at the upcoming Tasmanian Energy Development Conference, hosted by Informa.
This year’s event – the largest of its kind in Tasmania – will discuss the very latest developments.
Joining Ms Mallee on the stage are Hon Nick Duigan MP, Minister for Energy and Renewables, Government of Tasmania, Vanessa Pinto, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Renewables, Energy, Climate and Future Industries, Tasmania (ReCFIT), Stephanie McGregor, Chief Executive Officer, Marinus Link, and Erin van Maanen, Executive General Manager, Strategy, Hydro Tasmania.
Learn more and register your tickets here.
About Kim Mallee
Kim Mallee is a Director at Community Power Agency. She has extensive experience in Renewable Energy Zones and is recognised thought leader in the field of benefit sharing and community engagement. Kim has trained as an Environmental Engineer, and worked across the private and public sector in sustainability, carbon accounting and solar data analysis.
Kim has authored key publications, including the ‘Guidelines for Community Engagement, Benefit Sharing, and Local Procurement for Renewables in Tasmania’, which have set the standard for community-inclusive practices in the industry.
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