Measurement methods of socioeconomic impacts of renewable energy projects

Abstract

The development and operation of renewable energy projects can offer a variety of environmental, economic and social impacts for all associated stakeholders, thus assisting the procedure of social acceptance of such projects. In most cases importance is given to the measurement and assessment mainly of the environmental and economic impacts, leaving behind the investigation of social impacts, although they are an aspect that can enhance projects’ acceptance throughout the lifecycle of the project (planning, construction, and operation). The present study reviews the work that has been done so far regarding the methods for measuring the social impacts created by renewable energy projects, with the aim of enhancing the understanding and facilitating further improvements in the specific field. In this context, the study a) examines all relevant terms as defined by previous literature, b) takes under consideration the importance of measuring social impacts, c) assesses the steps and guidelines involved in social impact measurement, d) investigates applied indicators, metrics and methods, and e) reviews the existing studies that focus on the measurement of socioeconomic impacts of renewable energy technologies and projects.