Whales & Wind: A Case Study on Misinformation About Renewable Energy Development

Abstract

Mis- and disinformation are being increasingly harnessed to influence public opinion and advance agendas across the globe. It has also greatly impacted renewable energy planning and development. This thesis explores misinformation in the context of offshore wind projects. Despite the clear environmental benefits and necessity of transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind, misinformation poses significant barriers to their development. Building on established research about the spread of misinformation and strategies to counteract it, this study examines the approaches adopted by pro-wind stakeholders—government entities, nonprofits/NGOs, and offshore wind developers—to address misinformation. It specifically focuses on a recent case study involving alleged correlations between offshore wind activities and whale strandings in New Jersey. Through interviews with these stakeholders and an analysis of media representations, this thesis delineates how the misinformation spread—namely through unsound claims, emotional appeals, and the collective power of existing local and national interests against offshore wind. It also examines the effectiveness of different approaches to counter these misinformation campaigns, highlighting the challenges faced by pro-wind stakeholders in ensuring accurate public understanding of the impact of offshore wind development on marine life. The thesis concludes with recommendations for improving strategies to combat misinformation and fostering a more transparent and collaborative public discourse on renewable energy development projects. These recommendations aim to be applicable across various planning contexts.