Environmental justice and citizen perceptions of a proposed electric transmission line

Abstract

This research sought to understand public perceptions of the decision-making process over a controversial high-voltage electric transmission line proposed in New Hampshire in the northeastern United States. These perceptions were gauged through an analysis of comments made by citizens during public meetings held for the project. The findings show that while public managers, utilities, and developers often cite the physical aspects of energy projects (e.g. esthetics, health impacts, property values) to explain public opposition, a core public concern is the quality of the decision-making process. Drawing from a procedural justice framework, this case study illustrates the importance of the decision-making process to understand citizen opposition to energy infrastructure proposals. These findings will be useful to energy planning practitioners and those seeking to improve citizen participation processes.

Keywords:

• energy planning
• procedural justice
• public participation
• transmission lines

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by funding from the James M. Jeffords, Center for Policy Research at the University of Vermont.

Notes

1. The comments are mostly from nonaffiliated citizens; additionally some nonprofit organizations, businesses, and others also testified.