Determinants of community acceptance of geothermal energy projects: A case study on a geothermal energy project in Kenya

Geothermal energy is a dependable energy source that can catalyze socioeconomic development in developing countries. However, in several countries, geothermal energy sources face community opposition. Therefore, to enable the widespread use of geothermal energy, it is important to address these issues. This study aims to analyze the main factors influencing the community acceptance of geothermal energy projects in East-Africa. In this study, the controversial ’Olkaria IV Geothermal Project’ in Kenya, one of the top geothermal energy producers in the world, was considered as the case study.

A quantitative survey was conducted using a questionnaire for 138 households affected by the project. Furthermore, a stepwise regression model was employed to investigate the determinant factors influencing community acceptance of the project. Fifteen independent variables were included in the model. Seven predictors were selected for the model, namely, “Perception of appropriate mitigation of environmental impacts”, “Isolation during the decision-making process”, “Understanding of socioeconomic benefits”, “Understanding of grievance mechanism”, “Understanding of environmental benefits”, “Perception about environmental impacts”, and “Explanation of grievance mechanism”. Notably, “Isolation during the decision-making process,” “Understanding of environmental benefits,” and “Explanation of grievance mechanism” portrayed a negative relationship with the dependent variable “Community acceptance”.

This study highlights the importance of mitigating environmental impacts, raising awareness about mitigation measures, ensuring inclusive community engagement in the decision-making process (while considering specific cultural customs), and emphasizing the socioeconomic outcomes of the project. In addition, our study highlights the fact that the strong patriarchy of pastoral communities influences the inequality and feeling of isolation in the community, resulting in a communication gap within the community. Moreover, direct socioeconomic and environmental benefits through corporate social responsibility or royalty allowance schemes can also enhance community acceptance. Our study can serve as a framework for future studies that aim to promote the use of geothermal energy and improve the community acceptance of such projects.