53-3 Methodology for Community and Stakeholder Analysis

Session: Community Engaged Research for Environmental Sustainability and Community Resilience

Presenting Author:

Authors:

Abstract:

The Energy Engagement, Leadership and Careers Program (Energy ELC) at the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources has drawn from traditional approaches to inform a methodology for community and stakeholder analysis tailored to energy projects in Wyoming. Effective engagement is essential to ensuring that research efforts are impactful. This methodology was therefore designed to pair with applied research efforts in existing and emerging energy sectors across Wyoming. The Energy ELC’s community and stakeholder analysis methodology is a framework designed to foster trust, build social license to operate, and ensure that projects contribute positively to the communities that may be in proximity to energy projects. This methodology includes a multistep approach to analyze the communities and stakeholders that will be affected by energy projects in their region by defining the geographic scope; categorizing communities and stakeholders; collecting background data; analyzing communities and stakeholders by using a power and interest grid; and developing engagement strategies that are informed by this analysis. By developing this framework, the Energy ELC aims to navigate the opportunities and complexities that arise while engaging with communities and stakeholders with proactive and inclusive methodologies that align research projects with the priorities and needs of communities and stakeholders. 

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-8072

© Copyright 2025 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved.