FARMERS' PERCEPTIONS OF WIND ENERGY IN THE UMARIZEIRO COMUNITY, LAGOA NOVA, RN.

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4215/rm2025.e24015

Abstract

In recent years, the wind energy sector in the state of Rio Grande do Norte has expanded significantly, establishing itself as Brazil’s leading producer of wind power. Although regarded as a renewable and clean source, wind energy is frequently associated with negative externalities that affect neighboring communities. In this context, the present study investigates the perceptions of farmers from the Umarizeiro community, located in Lagoa Nova–RN, regarding the externalities associated with the Acauã III Wind Farm. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research involved semi-structured interviews with farmers residing near the wind complex. The results highlight key perceived impacts, including noise pollution, dust, deforestation, poor road maintenance, and restricted access to public policies—such as PRONAF, whose credit approval reportedly became contingent upon authorization from the wind company. Additionally, the increase in municipal revenue did not translate into tangible improvements in public services for the community. Grounded in the principles of energy justice, the study reveals distributive, procedural, and institutional inequalities in the relationship between the wind project and local residents. Finally, it suggests the need for mitigation strategies that align energy generation with agricultural sustainability and the well-being of affected populations.

Keywords: Wind energy. Negative Externalities, Energy Justice, Local Community, Farmers.

Author Biographies

  • Marcio Vieira da Silva, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Currais Novos (RN), Brazil

    PhD student in Energy in the Graduate Program in Energy at the Federal University of ABC. He is currently a permanent professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, located at the Faculty of Engineering, Letters and Social Sciences of Seridó (FELCS) in Currais Novos. He has experience in Mathematics and Statistics, with an emphasis on Mathematics.

  • Conrado Augustus de Melo, Federal University of ABC, Santo André (SP), Brazil

    PhD in Energy Systems Planning from the State University of Campinas (2009). He is a professor at the Federal University of ABC. He has experience developing research projects, including three postdoctoral projects and consulting work for public agencies and the private sector. His research interests include energy planning, energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, public energy policies, and the relationship between energy and climate change.

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Published

2025-07-28

Issue

Vol. 24 (2025)

Section

Artigos

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