In this episode of CleanTalk, we're joined by Peter Elms, Co-Founder & Director of Alpaca Communications, the UK's leading communications agency for Net Zero infrastructure, to unpack the real mechanics behind winning planning consent for renewable energy projects.
Peter explains why lobbying isn’t a dirty word, how behavioural science and loss aversion shape public opposition, and why “net zero” has become a politically toxic phrase in parts of the UK. We dig into how developers should think about stakeholders, why trust is the real bottleneck, and how authentic storytelling, done carefully, could de-risk projects rather than endanger reputations.
This is a grounded, honest look at the intersection of politics, public opinion, and renewable energy development, and why better communication may be just as important as better technology.
Enjoy!
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Connect with Peter Elms on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-elms-89b82748/
Join the CleanTalk community on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12991627/
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CleanTalk is produced by Harmer Visuals, a film & media company specialising in brand & case study storytelling for organisations across the renewable energy and clean technology sector. To find out more about how we can help you, visit: https://www.harmervisuals.com
Many thanks to...
Recording space provider
Our rental suppliers -
O'RIORDAN | https://oriordan.io/ | Sunipa Pictures | https://www.sunipapictures.com/
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Chapters for today's episode:
00:00 - Intro
02:57 - Peter's Background
06:08 - Why Niching Helping The Business
08:56 - Co-Founder Dynamics
11:32 - What Role Comms Plays In Renewables Development
20:04 - How Politics Helps Or Hinders Energy Projects
25:35 - Social Media As A Comms Medium
29:42 - Strengths & Risks of Video Content
35:12 - Reflecting On Developers' Main Challenges
37:44 - Alpaca's 3-Phase Approach
42:12 - Quickfire Curiosity
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