Wind energy acceptability across five major economies: A comparative analysis

Wind power is a cornerstone of global efforts to decarbonize energy systems, yet its expansion is often hindered by local opposition. Previous studies suggest that perceptions of distributive injustice and perceived lack of community benefits are common sources of contention. Compensation schemes have therefore been proposed to enhance public acceptance, but little is known about their effectiveness across diverse national contexts. To address this gap, this article assesses public support for wind energy, with and without compensation, using original survey data from five democratic countries spanning five continents: Brazil, Germany, India, South Africa, and the United States. The findings show consistently high levels of support for wind energy, with stronger acceptance observed in emerging economies compared to Germany and the United States. Left-leaning ideology and climate concern are associated with stronger support for wind energy across all countries, yet the results are otherwise context-dependent. While this study finds that compensation to residents living near wind turbines tends to increase support among individuals initially negative to wind power, the effects are modest. In contrast, supportive individuals may become more skeptical when monetary incentives are introduced, suggesting that such measures may undermine altruistic or pro-environmental motivations. In the United States, right-leaning individuals who are typically more skeptical of wind energy respond more favorably to compensation, while the opposite effect is observed in India and South Africa. By providing a cross-continental comparison, this study offers a more globally inclusive perspective on the social factors shaping public acceptance of wind energy. • Public support for wind energy is generally strong, but acceptance is higher in emerging economies. • The influence of ideology and climate concern on wind energy support differ between high-income countries and economies. • Financial compensation for residents living near wind turbines modestly increases support among initially negative individuals. • Monetary incentives may undermine altruistic or pro-environmental motivations. • In the United States, right-leaning individuals skeptical of wind energy respond more favorably to compensation.