New BPC Case Study Points to Successful Model for Energy Project Community Engagement

Washington, DC – Today, the Bipartisan Policy Center released a new case study analyzing the federal government’s role in supporting stakeholder engagement activities during a multi-year energy demonstration project, which should serve as a successful model for such activities on future projects. 

The case study, The Federal Role in Stakeholder Engagement for a Carbon Capture and Storage Demonstration Project, closely examines the project’s stakeholder engagement efforts from proposal through completion.  

“The Biden administration’s focus on community benefits in innovative energy projects has opened a conversation on the use of federal resources to advance the goals of job quality and equity,” said Tanya Das, BPC senior associate director of energy innovation. “Our study offers an example of how DOE can support meaningful engagement of stakeholders in the decision-making processes for these projects, while supporting these goals for a geographically and socially diverse range of communities.” 

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated over $20 billion to the Department of Energy for clean energy demonstration projects, and community benefit plans—inclusive of stakeholder engagement plans—will be required for all future award applicants. 

The case study provides DOE a template for stakeholder engagement prior to and during project selection and management for federally sponsored energy projects. 

Read the Executive Summary. 

Read the Full Case Study.