Green energy is essential to limiting global warming and working toward a sustainable future. However, without improved consideration of conflict dynamics, the implementation of green energy programs risks ineffective results and opposition by local communities.
800 million people in the world do not have access to energy. Of that number, 85% are living in fragile states. According to Riccardo Ridolfi of Equatorial Power, there is a direct relationship between resource scarcity and conflict. If entrepreneurs can invest in energy projects and reduce resource scarcity, it will improve economic development and reduce conflict. Providing more equitable access to energy can increase gender equality and empowerment, promote public service delivery, reduce inequalities, increase human capital, and increase perceived personal safety. However, it is important to consider the potential risks of energy projects. Energy projects can instigate conflict if they lack consent and meaningful engagement with the local communities, provide few benefits to the affected community, or reinforce existing power structures.
Reflecting on energy projects from her hometown in Marsabit County, Kenya, Hon. Waqo Naomi Jillo of the Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights for Marsabit County describes the importance of wind energy projects for local development and prosperity. The project, which was one of the largest private investments in Kenya, expanded the construction of roads and infrastructure which provides residents with access to markets, schools, tourism, and overall improved livelihoods. The project sought to increase involvement with the local community over time and has, since then, employed many young residents. Hon. Waqo Naomi Jillo thus argues that effective energy projects should prioritize consultation with local communities, consistent communication regarding the goals of operations, employment of local residents, and support for the rights of local land users.
Catriona Gourlay of Peace Nexus argues that one of the most important prerequisites for energy investments is to incorporate a conflict and context analysis into the design process. It is important to understand the drivers and actors of conflict before beginning energy investments. Furthermore, it is critical to engage local communities throughout the process. This can be done in a number of ways, such as promoting increased collaboration between climate teams, conflict teams, government officials, and community members. Local engagement should also ensure access to benefits for the affected communities through access to jobs and energy. Similarly, Saw John Bright of the Karen Environmental and Social Action Network argues that there should be greater investments into people and community-led projects, cultural values must be prioritized, and energy projects should have improved legal mechanisms to ensure accountability.
Energy experts discussed these findings during the session, “Peaceful Just Transition: Unpacking the Impacts of Renewable Energy Projects on Peace and Conflict,” during the 10th PeaceCon Conference held in Washington, DC during May 3-5, 2023.
Tia Savarese
Tia Savarese is a recent graduate of the George Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs with concentrations in Conflict Resolution and Security Policy and a minor in Spanish. She serves as the Commissioning Editor and Social Media Manager for Peace News Network while residing in Washington, DC. Before joining PNN, she interned for a communication firm, a think tank, and the federal government.
