Overcoming wind resistance: enhancing community acceptance of wind projects in Ontario

This study explores policy options the province of Ontario could undertake to increase community acceptance of wind power projects. Escalating opposition by communities to wind power developments threatens the province’s goal to increase its supply of renewable energy. Guided by a research framework examining the roles of procedural justice, distributional justice and trust, I examine the characteristics, policies and planning systems of three European jurisdictions who have successfully implemented a high capacity of wind power. I then compare case study findings with the views and opinions of best practices of wind power development as expressed by residents of Ontario who have experienced wind power in their community. Drawing on these findings, I propose three policy alternatives enhance community acceptance in Ontario. The final policy recommendation to the province suggests a provincial planning exercise to define areas for wind power development in the province.