The power industry on the road to 2020, threats and opportunities

The aim of this paper is to provide the power industry with a better understanding of consumers´ attitudes and actions at a time when major grid investments are due to be launched. In order to reach the EÜs ambitious goals for renewable energy, about 600 major grid projects are being planned throughout Europe. Projects of this kind are often met by strong protests from local environmentalists. This generates negative publicity for the power industry, prolonged official treatment and delays in completing the projects. This results in major socio-economic consequences and should be avoided. Both the industry and the authorities rely upon public acceptance of the measures that are needed to uphold the progress of the projects. How can the power industry handle these challenges?