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SEI Research Associate José Vega talks to Bloomberg on challenges in wind energy development in La Guajira, Colombia.
Eduar Monsalve / SEI
La Guajira is a region in Colombia with incredible potential for wind energy, but taking advantage of it depends on social acceptance, as this region has collective lands of the Wayuu indigenous community. Colombia’s transition targets and activities have taken wind projects to the region, some have succeeded while others have faced continued disagreements resulting in delays and even cancellations.
“One of the main determinants of social acceptance of projects is tangible benefits for local communities. That will translate into megawatts.”
said José Vega, Research Associate at SEI Latin America to Bloomberg
SEI has been actively navigating the complex scenario at La Guajira, aiming to understand why social acceptance remains a challenge in the region. Some of the findings include lack of access to reliable, complete and timely information; the role of the stakeholders; the distribution of benefits during and after consultations; and the variety of leadership roles in the Wayuu communities.
Feature / This story conveys SEI's fieldwork in La Guajira exploring the social acceptance of wind energy among Indigenous Wayuu communities and key challenges.
Feature / Learn more about SEI's efforts and research regarding the social acceptance of wind energy projects in La Guajira, Colombia.
Project / This project aims to steer renewable energy development in La Guajira towards more equitable and socially beneficial paths.
SEI report / The authors identify enabling factors of social acceptance for wind energy projects and, more broadly, of a just energy transition in La Guajira.
Other publication / Researchers recommend how the Colombian government can phase out its diesel subsidy to support the country's energy transition.
Program / This programme aims to build a collaborative platform to accelerate renewable energy deployment in La Guajira.
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