Social Acceptance in Energy Projects: Shale Gas in Poland—Case Study

Abstract

Domestic energy systems are created and operate independently of the daily life of regular citizens. This helps minimise the risk related to new technologies and work performance. However, they affect the lifestyle of citizens and energy consumption structures. The energy policy is usually conducted in a paternalistic and centralised way, away from the social environment. Often times, rights of local communities are passed over during execution of energy projects. The objective of the chapter is to show importance of social acceptance in execution of new energy projects in the example of shale gas output in Poland and active opposition against it. The chapter is aimed at showing that local community becomes the key stakeholder in initiating local projects, and community consultations and dialogue with stakeholders become a determinant of success for innovative energy projects. Moreover, the author will attempt to defend the thesis that irrespective of the origin of the primary sources of energy fossil (nuclear or renewable), social acceptance is often the barrier for effective and efficient implementation of energy projects.