Banning the Future: How People, Politics, and Place drive Renewable Energy Bans in U.S. Counties

Keywords: Renewable Energy, Energy Bans, Energy Regulations, Onshore Wind Energy, Solar Energy
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

This study assesses the patterns in counties with regulations or bans on utility scale wind and/or solar projects within the United States, with an emphasis on the socio-political characteristics that influence these decisions. Specifically, the research explores how factors such as population density, energy potential, past renewable development, racial demographics, median household income, and education level influence local renewable energy regulations. The analysis uses data from the National Renewable energy Lab (NREL) on current regulations, U.S. Census demographic data, and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data on current wind and solar projects. To assess the relationship between these various factors and the restriction in renewable energy projects, the study uses a variety of quantitative techniques such as multivariate regression analysis. The results of the regression analysis provide insights into how socio-political and geographical factors influence the regulatory decisions on renewable energy development.