Balancing Participation and Speed

A Polycentric Governance Lens on Renewable‐Energy Siting

Bibliographic Data

ID11326524
AuthorsJuniper Katz (0000-0002-8538-3818, School of Public Policy University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst Massachusetts USA, corresponding author), Natalie Baillargeon (0000-0002-0201-775X, School of Public Policy University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst Massachusetts USA)
Year2025
Volume54
Issue2
Publication date2025-12-12
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenuePolicy Studies Journal (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0190-292X • E-ISSN: 1541-0072
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/psj.70091
OpenAlexW7114994939
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited27

Siting and permitting for renewable projects vary in process and authority structures. Such variation can create coordination challenges and inconsistent public participation processes. We develop a Governance Trade‐Off Matrix to classify permitting processes by (1) authority structure (polycentric vs. monocentric) and (2) procedural extensiveness (minimal vs. extensive). The matrix shows when jurisdictional dispersion enables timely implementation and when it creates coordination breakdowns. We propose testable hypotheses on how governance design affects project timelines, conflict escalation, and local acceptance. The framework highlights design levers, like single lead agencies, structured public involvement, and statutory shot clocks, to reconcile meaningful local input with urgent climate imperatives

Corporate governance · Decentralization · Lens (geology · Process (computing · Public participation · Statutory law · Through-the-lens metering · Public Policy and Administration Research · Social Acceptance of Renewable Energy · Sustainability and Climate Change Governance

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