By Tod Bowman

policy associate with the
Center for Rural Affairs

Transparency is essential to effective policy making and is the cornerstone of earning stakeholder trust. When people understand the reasoning behind a policy, they are much more likely to accept the final outcome, even if it does not align with their individual preference.

The future of clean energy depends on the successful implementation and adoption of solar and wind policies to provide needed rural economic opportunities and preserve the health of our natural environment. Achieving good public policy requires transparency, effective communication, and authentic community engagement. Providing the public opportunities to engage in open conversations with public officials and giving citizens accurate information will increase public trust in government and provide better policy outcomes that reflect community needs.

Effective communication is vital, leading to improved quality of life, economic growth, and stronger rural communities. To effectively engage with a variety of stakeholders, public officials must ensure that community members have access to accurate information and are able to connect with decision makers to share feedback. By listening to a variety of perspectives, elected officials can identify potential problems and opportunities rather than just checking off a public engagement requirement. Consistent and accurate information sharing about how to maximize benefits and minimize tradeoffs of clean energy is imperative for countering misinformation and promoting public awareness.

Engaging the public early and often in policymaking processes is key for developing trust and collaboration and, ultimately, successful implementation. Recognizing historical and cultural dynamics is vital for understanding local concerns and ensuring that policies are equitable and inclusive. Officials should develop ways to welcome all community members to participate in a meaningful way to ensure that policies are aligned with the needs and values of the community they serve.

Ultimately, the success of clean energy initiatives depends on a commitment to transparency, communication, and community engagement. By prioritizing these values, policymakers can create new economic development opportunities, build public trust, and accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future for all Americans.

To learn more, download our fact sheet on best practices for community engagement, www.cfra.org/publications/best-practices-community-engagement.

Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, nonprofit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.