Justice in the Energy Transition: How citizens of Meeden aim to achieve energy justice

Abstract

This research concerns the topic of justice in the energy transition. The energy transition is likely to produce and perpetuate existing inequalities. It is therefore relevant to uncover how and by whom this is done. Here, this is exemplified by a case study of wind park N33 in Meeden, Groningen in the Netherlands. It is attempted to discover how energy justice is envisioned by the government through a policy analysis, and how citizens strategize to gain benefits or avoid burdens of the transition by interviews with citizens of Meeden. The policy analysis is conducted on two documents, the Energietransitieplan 2015-2019 and the Inpassingsplan 2017. Energy justice is envisioned as participation and compensation. Citizens of Meeden indicated that there should be an equal distribution of burdens and benefits, options for participation, and revenues should be invested in the area. Participation methods have, so far, felt like ‘checking a box’ and not as a chance for them to join in the decision-making process. They deployed several strategies in attempt to increase their influence. These included, among other things, the foundation of a citizen protest group, collecting signatures, or occupying the local townhouse. For the energy transition to be just, inclusion and participation can play important roles in increasing social acceptance, driving innovation, and distribute the burdens and benefits equally.