When energy transitions drive polarization: Narratives of green energy and mitigation strategies by proponents and opponents of geothermal energy developments in Indonesia

This article contributes to research on social acceptance of energy transitions by analyzing environmental polarization between proponents and opponents of geothermal energy developments in Indonesia. It is based on data from a 2024–2025 study which used community-based participatory research in 14 locations with geothermal developments. Due to its location on the ring of fire, Indonesia offers a wealth of untapped resources for geothermal energy; full utilization of this energy source could reduce the nation's reliance on coal-fired power plants. Yet the rapid increase of geothermal developments since 2021 has led to public opposition. The study found evidence of actual polarization between elites and local communities in 1) contrasting narratives about green energy, and 2) contrasting mitigation strategies to address community polarization. These findings explain how social acceptance of energy transitions can be a barrier or an asset depending on 1) how socio-cultural values align between environmental policymakers and local communities, and 2) how methods for obtaining community acceptance align with principles of mitigating environmental polarization: open communication, deliberation, and collective action. The article recommends that 1) community resistance to geothermal developments should be viewed as a sign that environmental policies are increasing harmful polarization, 2) local communities and local knowledges should be viewed as socio-cultural assets to develop just green energy policies that improve local and national economic outputs alongside reducing carbon emissions and promoting healthy ecosystems, and 3) spaces for open deliberation about renewable energy transitions are needed to inform environmental policies. • Study presents data from 14 locations with geothermal developments in Indonesia. • Narratives show actual polarization between elites and local communities. • Proponents' top-down mitigation strategies increase environmental polarization. • Opponents' collaborative mitigation strategies decrease environmental polarization. • Community deliberation is needed to increase social acceptance of renewable energy.