JustRE Research

This research initiative intends to provide a robust evidence base to help overcome social barriers to the deployment of large-scale renewable energy in the Global South.

Resistance and conflict at community level are increasingly delaying or derailing projects. Yet, the sector lacks clear understanding of the scale and drivers of these social dynamics, or where excellence and support networks already exist. 

Commissioned under the JustRE Alliance, the project focuses on solar, wind and transmission projects across Latin America, Africa and South and Southeast Asia, and will consist of two complementary components: 

Impact of Social Opposition on Renewable Energy Deployment 
This research examines how social resistance such as project delays, legal challenges and reduced political support, affects the pace of renewable energy deployment.Using a systematic review of evidence and case studies, the study will develop a flexible framework to assess different types and levels of impact. The framework is designed to combine academic robustness with practical relevance, making it useful for real-world decision-making. 

Mapping Social Performance in the Ecosystem  
The study will also map the broader ecosystem within these regions, including identifying civil society organisations, multi-stakeholder initiatives and other key actors engaged in promoting effective social practices. It will also unpack the critical gaps, opportunities and types of support needed to address social opposition.  

Expected Outcomes 

• Evidence base for the importance of strong social practices in accelerating just energy transitions. 

• Regional social performance maps to identify key actors and initiatives. 

Comprehensive reports analysing the impact of social opposition and detailing the ecosystem of social performance. nd a strengthened knowledge base, the project contributes to making renewable energy projects more socially just, locally supported, and climate-effective.