Stakeholder Engagement & Community Relations

Building relationships and managing expectations with communities and stakeholders

The Importance of Stakeholder Engagement

Successful energy storage project development depends heavily on effective stakeholder engagement. Stakeholders include local communities, environmental groups, regulatory agencies, utilities, and indigenous communities. Each group has different concerns, levels of influence, and information needs. Poor engagement can lead to project delays, increased costs, legal challenges, and community opposition.

Effective stakeholder engagement builds trust, addresses concerns early, and creates opportunities for collaboration. It involves identifying stakeholders, understanding their interests and influence, developing communication strategies, and maintaining ongoing dialogue throughout the project lifecycle.

Engagement Principles

  • Early Involvement: Engage stakeholders as early as possible in the process
  • Transparency: Be open about project plans, potential impacts, and decision-making
  • Two-way Communication: Listen to concerns and provide clear, honest responses
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect diverse perspectives and cultural contexts
  • Follow-through: Keep commitments and maintain relationships over time

Interactive Stakeholder Engagement Simulator

Select Project Type

Project Phase

Stakeholder Influence-Interest Map

High Influence, Low Interest
High Influence, High Interest
Low Influence, Low Interest
Low Influence, High Interest
Interest Level →
← Influence Level
High Priority
Standard Priority

Engagement Strategy Overview

Measuring Engagement Success

95%
Stakeholder satisfaction
60%
Faster permitting
25%
Lower project costs
80%
Community support

*Based on projects with comprehensive stakeholder engagement programs

Environmental Assessment