Applying the Grey Systems Theory to Assess Social Impact from an Energy Project

Energy projects, in some cases, became in causes of social conflicts, in this way and in order to prevent social conflict is it necessary to make a social impact assessment (SIA) before the implementation of an energy project. In this work, a method based on grey systems theory to assess social impact from a hydrocarbon exploration project in Valencia, Spain, was applied. In this case study, three stakeholder groups (G1-G3) and four criteria of evaluation (C1-C4) were determined. The results of this study showed the energy project would have a negative total social impact. These results could help to local and central authorities to make the best decision about the energy project. The quantitative method applied in this study showed interesting results and it could be applied to assess social impact from other types of energy projects.