Offshore wind power development in Maine: A rational choice perspective

Abstract

AbstractIn this article, we explore the social, cultural, and political factors promoting and impeding development of offshore wind power in Maine, using the perspective of rational choice theory. Offshore floating wind platforms involve a new technology still in the experimental stage. Developing offshore wind power will require having very large scale organizations to build and finance wind farms capable of generating and transmitting electricity at competitive rates. But many obstacles can impede developing offshore wind power, including technical and financial problems and the level of support from the public and politicians. Our survey of the attitudes of three subgroups of Maine coastal people revealed substantial differences of opinion. Those in favor want to curb greenhouse gases and reduce dependence on foreign oil. Others are opposed because they fear negative effects (e.g., aesthetics; noise; reduced fishing area; mortality of animals, birds, or fish). From the perspective of rational choice theory, offshore wind power poses a collective action dilemma. Despite the need to develop renewable energy sources in a world facing climate change and shortages of cheap energy, development of offshore wind power in Maine will not succeed unless this dilemma is overcome. This does not appear likely to happen in the foreseeable future.