When energy transitions drive polarization: Narratives of green energy and mitigation strategies by proponents and opponents of geothermal energy developments in Indonesia
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This article contributes to research on community acceptance of energy transitions by analyzing environmental polarization between proponents and opponents of geothermal energy in Indonesia. It is based on data from a 2024-2025 study using community-based participatory research in 14 locations with geothermal developments. Indonesia offers a wealth of untapped resources for geothermal energy; full utilization of this energy source could reduce the nation’s reliance on coal-fired power plants. Yet the rapid increase of geothermal developments since 2021 has led to public opposition. This study found evidence of actual intergroup polarization between elites and local communities in 1) contrasting narratives about green energy, and 2) contrasting mitigation strategies to address community polarization. These findings explain how social acceptance of energy transitions can be a barrier or an asset depending on 1) how socio-cultural values align between environmental policymakers and local communities, and 2) how methods for obtaining social acceptance align with principles of mitigating environmental polarization: open communication, deliberation and collective action. The article recommends that 1) local communities and local knowledges should be viewed as resources to develop just green energy policies and 2) spaces for deliberation about energy transitions at the local level are needed to inform environmental policy.
Source: Energy Policy
Institutions: University of Leeds, Universitas Gadjah Mada
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,940
Funders: Ford Foundation, World Bank Group
Award: G1889456464
OpenAlex ID: W7124447247