The global shift toward renewable energy is gaining momentum, but questions about community equity and participation remain unresolved. In South Africa, frameworks such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) mandate community inclusion in energy developments, but in practice, participation is often limited, delayed, or symbolic. This study critically examined the implications of community participation in wind energy projects within the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Local Municipalities within the Sara Baartman district in the Eastern Cape. Grounded in Stakeholder and Participatory Governance Theories and adopting an interpretivist approach, this study used a qualitative approach to explore the timing, nature, and barriers to community engagement and participation in the Wind Energy development within these two communities. The study used purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews to collect in-depth data from 10 key participants. Findings demonstrate that barriers arise from asymmetric information flows, poorly integrated decision-making, and a structurally weakened municipal role. There is consensus among key stakeholders that the current framework has gaps in promoting community participation, integrated participation of all key stakeholders, and supporting community trusts. A community participation effectiveness framework emerged from findings around strategies to improve participation. By identifying structural and contextual barriers to genuine participation, this research offers actionable strategies for transforming community involvement from passive consultation to meaningful co-ownership in South Africa.
- Community participation in wind energy projects in Kouga and Kou-Kamma local municipalities
- Thandeka Hlengiwe Radebe
- Ayanda Sibiya - University of Johannesburg
- University of Johannesburg; Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Arts (MA), University of Johannesburg
- 9964909307691
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Johannesburg; College of Business & Economics (CBE); School of Management
- English
- Thesis