Fairing the energy transition: A policy framework for integrating stakeholder concerns in solar energy development

Abstract

Ensuring that the energy transition actively accounts for stakeholders' concerns is critical to both addressing and redressing (in)justices. From an energy justice perspective, key aspects – including distributive, procedural, recognitional, and restorative justice – must be duly inscribed across the lifecycles of new renewable energy infrastructures. This article aims to identify the salient stakeholder concerns and propose corresponding policy actions that embed justice principles in the energy transition. It particularly emphasizes on the implications for affected stakeholders groups, namely workers, suppliers, communities, and consumers. Drawing on evidence from ethnographic field observations and semi-structured interviews (n = 47) in solar photovoltaic energy projects in Brazil and Portugal, this Perspective article proposes a framework of structural and practical policy actions that centre the affected stakeholders' concerns, which can be adapted across global geographies. This work contributes to the just energy transitions global agenda by providing practical recommendations for integrating justice into energy policies.