Krista Harper, professor of anthropology and public policy, and coauthors have released a new article on community perceptions in Holyoke, Massachusetts on the green energy transition. The article, "Whose low-carbon future? Community perceptions and expectations on the renewable energy transition in a post-industrial city," describes both the differences and commonalities that community members and energy system specialists understand the energy transition and its effects on Holyoke. The study, which was released in the journal Energy Research & Social Science, found themes of both energy justice and injustice, with respondents citing positive outcomes, including economic opportunities and improvements in well-being, while also citing significant concerns, such green gentrification and ensuring maintenance of culture and community. The article also points to importance of engaging communities in decisions early in the policymaking process in order to avoid perpetuating inequalities.
Krista Harper publishes article on perceptions of energy transition in Holyoke, MA
