Social opposition to energy storage projects is an increasing challenge in Spain. In light of this reality, sector specialists and social sustainability consultants emphasize the importance of preventive tools and conflict resolution strategies.

During the Open Session of the Business Association of Batteries and Energy Storage (AEPIBAL), effective strategies were discussed to avoid delays and setbacks stemming from social unrest.

As Luis Marquina,, president of AEPIBAL, highlighted, “A project may progress legally, but without a social license, local opposition can create significant barriers to its execution.”

One of the key tools is “social due diligence,” a preventive strategy that evaluates potential project risks from the outset.

According to Inés Monroy, a consultant specializing in social sustainability in renewable energy, this tool is essential to prevent future conflicts by integrating social risks into project planning.

“Social risk is not typically included in the risk matrix. That’s why we designed social due diligence, which helps foresee and manage unrest before it impacts the project,” Monroy explained.

This approach promotes comprehensive management of community relations, preventing opposition from arising at critical stages of development.

When conflicts have already escalated or reached legal stages, judicial mediation offers constructive solutions.

Lourdes del Amo, a lawyer and mediator in urban conflicts, described how this approach creates a dialogue space where parties can address their differences in a neutral, facilitated environment.

“Even when a conflict has been judicialized, judicial mediation enables parties to negotiate without confrontation, with a mediator fostering understanding,” noted Del Amo, adding that over 76% of such mediation processes result in agreements, according to Spain’s Ministry of Justice.

Strategies for Energy Project Developers

For energy project developers, building a social license is crucial long before social opposition arises.

As Marquina noted, “An administrative license is granted by law, but without social support, the project is exposed to setbacks and community tensions.”

Experience shows that appropriate social management from the beginning can drastically reduce the likelihood of opposition by fostering trust and transparency.

Monroy stressed the importance of collaboration between developers and public authorities through community outreach initiatives, such as pilot project tours or open informational meetings.

“I’ve seen well-designed projects face social opposition due to a lack of understanding about the technology. This is where collective informational efforts can help build the necessary acceptance,” she explained.

The consultant also emphasized that social acceptance of a project should not rely solely on economic compensation or benefit sharing. Exclusively focusing on economic benefits can create the perception that support is being “bought,” which is insufficient for long-term legitimacy.

“Sharing benefits is just one tool in a social license strategy; it is not the gateway,” Monroy stated, highlighting that efforts should center on genuine engagement and participatory practices, which include—but are not limited to—the distribution of economic benefits.

The Role of Influential Voices and Positive Community Impact

Respected voices, such as academics or renowned experts, play a crucial role in legitimizing energy storage projects.

However, as Marquina cautioned, in regions where opposition is intense, it can be challenging to find prestigious figures willing to publicly support these projects.

“When the conflict has reached a certain level of intensity, it’s not easy for these voices to risk being targeted,” noted the AEPIBAL president.

Monroy advocated for creating spaces for active and respectful listening, which can transform opponents into allies. She shared concrete examples of projects where initial opposition diminished once communities were given opportunities to voice concerns and understand the technology’s benefits.

When communities identify with a project and feel valued in the process, resistance decreases significantly, paving the way for harmonious and sustainable implementation.

Early social management, judicial mediation, and the support of influential voices emerge as essential tools for preventing conflicts and securing acceptance of energy storage projects. These strategies build trust, foster understanding, and ensure the smooth development of projects vital to the energy transition.