Energy projects can be savvy long-term investments for businesses. Renewable energy projects involving solar energy, wind turbines or geothermal power have become increasingly popular. They have also become less expensive in recent years due to technological advances and subsidies. More traditional energy projects including oil and gas extraction or processing can also be lucrative long-term investments for businesses.
Unfortunately, the nearby communities that may benefit from such projects sometimes take issue with them. Individual property owners, existing businesses or even municipal authorities may initiate litigation in an attempt to block a proposed energy project. Organizations preparing to invest in energy infrastructure often need to be ready to respond if people attempt to block a project using the legal system.
Why litigation is common
People fear what they do not understand. There is a host of misinformation spread about all kinds of energy production. Some people opine that solar panels kill birds in large numbers. This flies in the face of scientific evidence, as even the National Audubon Society supports properly-planned and installed solar systems as beneficial for birds and other wildlife.
Others may protest wind turbines because of fear about birds, the noise the system may generate or how it may change the view. Oil and gas operations may face pushback based on misinformation about different procedures or concerns about groundwater contamination.
Frequently, the basis for litigation is concerned about community or environmental impact. Property owners and businesses may worry that the project could ultimately diminish what their land or homes are worth.
Proper preparation can pay off in the long run
Beginning any significant energy project with careful research into potential environmental impact and an analysis of how the project could affect the local community can be beneficial for a business. The money invested in such research may pay long-term dividends by helping the organization counter unfounded fear-based opposition.
Proactive communication with local communities and nearby property owners can also be helpful. If people see information that makes it clear their property values could increase rather than decline, they may be less likely to take legal action or support those who do.
Anticipating legal opposition to energy-related business projects can help organizations minimize the delays and expenses generated by such lawsuits. Organizations that can confidently take their cases to court or convince the other parties to dismiss a pending lawsuit can move forward with projects that may benefit their companies and the community in the long run.