Understanding public preferences towards Ireland's offshore wind sector: A study on renewable energy trade, public involvement, and setback distance

Abstract

We examine the preferences for offshore wind farms involving different levels of participation, distances to shore and energy export using a choice experiment in Ireland. Respondents are willing to make monetary trade-offs to permit offshore wind development involving trade in renewable electricity. However, they prefer developments that retain wind energy in Ireland rather than export and ventures which involve high levels of participation located further from the shoreline. We find significant preference heterogeneity with respect to participation and trade. Women have stronger preferences for a higher level of engagement in the development process than men, are less supportive of exports, are more likely to indicate their uncertainty in the face of potential environmental impacts posed by offshore wind but are equally knowledgeable about the industry.