New Third Way Launches Research on Public Perceptions of Wind Power in Serbia

We are informing the public about a new research initiative focused on public perceptions of wind energy in Serbian municipalities where wind farms are already operational. The project, titled “Public Sentiment on Wind Farms in Host Municipalities in Serbia,” is implemented by New Third Way (Novi treći put) and aims to better understand how local communities experience renewable energy projects in practice. The project is implemented with the support of the Heinrich Böll Foundation Western Balkans.

As Serbia expands its renewable energy capacity, wind power has become a visible part of the energy transition. However, alongside infrastructure development, public acceptance, trust, and local engagement remain critical factors. This project addresses that gap by examining satisfaction levels, perceived economic and social impacts, and the spread of misinformation related to wind energy.

Goals and Activities

The core objective of the project is to assess local sentiment toward wind farms, including perceived benefits, concerns, and unmet expectations. Through a series of structured focus groups, the research will explore environmental perceptions, local employment effects, transparency in project development, and community participation in decision-making processes.

A particular focus is placed on identifying and countering disinformation narratives surrounding wind energy, including pseudoscientific claims related to health and environmental risks. The project also integrates a gender-sensitive approach, ensuring that women’s perspectives and experiences are systematically included in both data collection and analysis.

Support and Impact

The findings will be synthesized into a detailed analytical report with policy-oriented recommendations aimed at improving public communication, community engagement, and trust-building around renewable energy projects in Serbia. Results will be presented to policymakers, media, civil society, and energy-sector stakeholders, contributing to a more informed and socially sustainable energy transition.