In order to meet its aim of developing strong and responsive relationships with stakeholders, the Saint Lucia Renewable Energy Sector Development Project (RESDP) initiated a comprehensive Public Information and Communications Campaign (PICC) early in the project’s life cycle. The objective of the PICC is to develop and implement a public relations and communications programme that engages a broad reach of the St. Lucian populace and increase their knowledge and awareness of renewable energy resources, particularly geothermal.
As a foundational step, an extensive public opinion baseline survey was conducted in 2023 to assess the existing knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of both key stakeholders and the public regarding renewable energy, geothermal energy, and the RESDP. The findings of this research were used to influence the design of the PICC.
The project recently concluded the mid-term round of this public opinion research where it gathered updated feedback from the population which will be used by the project’s communications consultant to refine the PICC. The survey, conducted during the last quarter of 2024 employed a robust quantitative methodology, gathering data from a representative sample of the general population as well as a subset of project-affected parties (PAPs). The survey obtained important information from over 500 participants on their awareness of renewable energy, perceptions of the RESDP, support for the RESDP, concerns and reservations, communication preferences, desired information and the project’s Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM).
Among the findings, several insights were gleaned. For example, overall perceptions of the RESDP remain positive, with the PAPs expressing an even more favorable view, indicating growing optimism as the project progresses.
With respect to communication preferences, social media, especially WhatsApp, remains the most preferred method for receiving updates on the RESDP and traditional media, such as radio and television also play significant roles in disseminating information. However, the PAPs expressed a strong preference for direct engagement, in particular community meetings.
Overall, the general population expressed a desire for more detailed information on the economic benefits of the RESDP, including job creation, potential cost savings, and environmental impacts. PAPs, on the other hand, prioritized information that directly impacts their communities, particularly around potential disruptions such as noise, dust, and water source impacts. They also sought more information on local job opportunities, community development plans, and the long-term economic benefits of the project.
Speaking on the importance of understanding public perceptions of the RESDP Project Manager Dr. Ken Aldonza stated “This mid-term survey provides valuable insights that will support the refinement of the PICC as the RESDP transitions from the planning to infrastructure and drilling works phase . As the project moves into more visible stages of implementation, the need for proactive engagement with stakeholders becomes increasingly critical. Therefore, ensuring alignment with the evolving needs and concerns of stakeholders will be essential to maintaining public trust and support. Moving forward, the RESDP can continue to build trust and support by addressing localized concerns, fostering transparency, and encouraging active participation, particularly among PAPs”.