Public acceptance of the expansion and modification of high-voltage power lines in the context of the energy transition

Abstract

The expansion and modification of high-voltage power lines (HVPLs) constitutes a key element of the successful implementation of the energy transition. While HVPLs often face public opposition, the energy transition and renewables are generally perceived positively. Drawing on the importance of benefit perception and affective responses for the acceptance of technologies, the present study investigated whether the perception of HVPLs changes when they are seen as a necessary measure for the successful energy transition. The results show that HVPLs are associated with more positive feelings, higher perceived benefit, lower perceived risk, and higher general and local acceptance when they are linked to the energy transition. However, numerous people believed that the energy transition renders further grid expansions unnecessary. This belief proved to be resistant to the provision of contrary information. Furthermore, the results underline the effect of visual impacts on the acceptance of HVPLs. Changes to the electricity grid that are accompanied by less visual impacts (e.g., technological modification) are more accepted than more visually disruptive changes (e.g., new construction). Finally, the findings emphasize the importance of affective response for the acceptance of HVPLs, especially for local acceptance. The results have several important implications for energy policy makers.