Getting low-carbon governance right: learning from actors involved in Community Benefits

Interest in Community Benefits has increased over the past decade mainly due to the growing number of wind farms and related criticism. Because Community Benefits are a voluntary gesture by the developer, there is no standard practice or institutionalised approach for good governance of the benefits; every community has a different approach, tailored to local needs and depending on the stakeholders involved. Additionally, since Community Benefits are a rapidly emerging practice, little is known about their governance, what actors are involved and how affected communities participate in decision-making on renewable projects. Using the Farr wind farm in Scotland, one of the first to introduce Community Benefits, as a case study, this paper sheds light on the governance structures surrounding the set up, management and allocation of funds. It also contributes to the emerging body of work regarding transparency and community participation in Community Benefits, and the extent to which these might facilitate a transition to a low carbon future.