PhD Studentship: A Socio-economic Impact Evaluation on Wellbeing and Community Dynamics of Offshore Wind Farms in the United Kingdom

Supervisor(s)

1. Dr Simona Rasciute, Loughborough University
2. Dr Anna Rita Bennato, Loughborough University
3. Dr Ali Moghaddasi-Kelishomi, Loughborough University
4. Gabriella Gilkes, The Crown Estate

Enquiries email: S.Rasciute@lboro.ac.uk

Funding for: UK students

Subject areas

• Economics
• Physical & Environmental Sciences 

Project description

Offshore wind farms are a key driver in the transition to clean energy, bringing substantial environmental and economic benefits. Their development can influence the well-being and social dynamics of nearby communities in various ways, requiring a thoughtful and inclusive approach to maximise positive outcomes. During the construction phase, temporary changes may affect daily life in coastal areas. However, with careful planning and community engagement, these disruptions can be managed effectively, ensuring minimal impact on residents. Over the long term, offshore wind farms can contribute to economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investment, and enhancing local infrastructure. They provide opportunities for workforce development and skill-building in emerging industries, fostering resilience in regional economies. 

Beyond economic aspects, offshore wind farms can bring social and cultural shifts. While some traditional coastal activities may need to adapt to new surroundings, the presence of renewable energy projects can also inspire innovation, promote environmental awareness, and strengthen local identity and belonging. Collaborative initiatives, such as community benefit programs and educational partnerships, can help integrate wind energy into the cultural fabric of coastal areas, creating a shared sense of progress and sustainability. This PhD research will address these challenges through a robust analysis of offshore wind farms’ influence on quality of life, social cohesion, and economic resilience.

This research aims to explore the multifaceted effects of offshore wind farms on well-being and community dynamics, considering both intended and unintended consequences. By identifying positive spillover effects—such as enhanced community resilience, belonging, economic opportunities, and increased recreational activities—alongside potential challenges, including habitat shifts and coastal development pressures, this project seeks to offer a comprehensive understanding of these dynamics. To support this analysis, a new dataset will be developed, enabling a deeper exploration of these effects over time. Social cost and benefit analysis of offshore windfarm development will be carried out using non-market monetisation approach by translating wellbeing impacts of such activities into monetary values and revealing trade-offs between money and non-market goods. This will provide insights into how much value individuals place on such initiatives and what trade-offs between different activities and behaviours are needed to capture wider benefits of offshore windfarm development.

By capturing the multifaceted impacts on communities, this research will help inform strategies that align renewable energy expansion with social and economic well-being.

Eligibility requirements

If you have received a First-class Honours degree, or a 2:1 Honours degree and a Masters, or a Distinction at Masters level with any undergraduate degree (or the international equivalents) in economics, energy economics, environmental science or related fields, we would like to hear from you. Strong analytical, quantitative and interdisciplinary collaboration skills are essential.

This scholarship is only available to Home (UK) students.

Closes: 9 May 2025

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