Examining the Social and Economic Impacts of Renewable Energy Development on Local Communities and Related Businesses
Keywords:
Renewable energy, economic impacts, social impacts, local businesses, sustainable developmentAbstract
The development of renewable energy, as one of the key components in achieving sustainable development, has multiple implications for the social and economic dimensions of local communities and related businesses. The purpose of the present study is to examine the economic and social impacts of renewable energy development on local communities and entrepreneurs active in this sector. This study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical method with a quantitative approach. The statistical population consisted of 150 experts and entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector in selected provinces of the country. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software. The results indicated that the development of renewable energy has a significant impact on improving economic indicators. Specifically, the average effect of employment increase was calculated as 4.12, energy cost reduction as 3.89, and regional investment growth as 4.03 (on a scale of 1 to 5). From a social perspective, the average of indicators such as increased local participation was 4.20, strengthened sense of social belonging 4.05, and overall public satisfaction 4.10. Pearson correlation analysis also revealed a positive and significant relationship between economic and social impacts (r = 0.691, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that the expansion of renewable energy can simultaneously lead to regional economic growth and enhancement of social capital in local communities. The research findings demonstrate that renewable energy development significantly increases job opportunities, reduces energy costs for small and medium-sized enterprises, and stimulates regional investments. From a social standpoint, the results indicate improvements in social capital, increased local participation, and enhanced quality of life in regions utilizing renewable energy. Overall, the results indicate that the expansion of clean energy holds significant potential for enhancing economic and social sustainability at the local community level and for developing innovative businesses.
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