This series of reports argues that social license is critical to the long-term success and finance of offshore wind projects. Without a strong community engagement framework, and transparent benefit-sharing mechanisms, Colombia’s emerging offshore wind sector will struggle to secure the social license it needs to operate and attract long-term investment.
The reports put forward a comprehensive framework for Community Benefits Sharing Schemes (CBSS), at a pivotal moment in Colombia’s energy transition. The country recently completed its first offshore wind tender, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to diversify its energy supplies.
The reports make the case for social license as an essential tool for building trust, reducing project risk, minimising misinformation, and fostering long-term relationships between coastal communities and offshore wind developers. This approach transforms the concept of CBSS from short-term goodwill gestures to an ongoing partnership for the benefit of all stakeholders.
“Coastal communities stand to gain improved infrastructure, local investments, and job opportunities. To achieve this, it’s essential that offshore wind projects are built in a way that respects and partners with these communities.,” said Vladimir Sosa, Head of Ibero-America, Ocean Energy Pathway.
Among the key recommendations, the reports calls for:
- Early target-setting for offshore wind capacity targets, industrial strategy, and community benefit framework guidance levels.
- Community-led governance models with strong transparency measures.
- Alignment with international standards.
- Encouragement and promotion of community benefit frameworks for offshore wind projects from the government.
- Expanded investment in local capacity building and training programmes.
The study positions Colombia as having an opportunity to learn lessons from more established offshore wind markets early in the development of its sector, embedding social value and community rights into project design from the start.
The following reports are available to download: