Smallholder women rising: Intersectional dynamics of resistance to geothermal energy in Western Turkey

Abstract

As the importance of social acceptance in the energy transition process becomes increasingly evident, extensive research has explored the factors shaping community support or opposition to wind and solar energy projects. This study addresses an understudied topic by focusing on a less examined form of renewable energy. It investigates how intersectional injustices and inequalities influence the emergence of resistance to geothermal energy projects. Using both document analysis and fieldwork, it examines the emergence of grassroots mobilizations against geothermal energy projects in small towns and villages across four neighboring provinces in Western Turkey. It employs an analytical framework that integrates insights from political ecology, feminist studies, and social movement studies. From this perspective, it considers the power relations and various axes of domination embedded in renewable energy policy and practices and shows that strong and sustained resistance against geothermal energy projects emerge where the negative impact of geothermal energy projects exacerbates preexisting intersectional inequalities related to gender and class identities. Ultimately, the study underscores the need to consider the diversity within local communities and the intersectional effects of power dynamics when developing policies and practices for renewable energy transitions.