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- Title
Public acceptance for the construction of a new compressor station: the Gasunie experience.
- Authors
Spiekhout, Jan
- Abstract
PUBLIC OPINION is becoming increasingly crucial for accepting the construction of new compressor stations. Previously, such projects could be more or less pushed through on the strength of the 'public interest' argument; in the current, more critical, atmosphere, however, this is no longer accepted, and new ways must be found to get the building of compressor stations accepted. The public is a vital stakeholder in this process, and communicating with local residents is one of the tools that must be used. By providing timely, accurate, and open information, we can ensure that companies such as Gasunie are seen as trustworthy partners that carefully weigh up their choices. Gasunie listens to residents and other stakeholders, and appreciates that the announcement of a compressor station in a locality can give rise to uncertainty. Wherever possible, Gasunie will therefore involve local residents in decisions: for example, about how to sympathetically situate the proposed construction in the landscape, and what mitigating measures can be taken. Gasunie also gives clear feedback if local demands cannot be met. The company wants to ensure that it is seen as a reliable organization and a trustworthy information partner. By discussing the 'whys and wherefores' of the compressor station with local residents, Gasunie has gradually generated acceptance for the fact that the compressor station will be a reality. On the other hand, communication is not a magic wand: the building of a compressor station is a major intervention in a community - one that not everyone is or will be happy about. This article begins with a brief outline of the general framework as it applies to Gasunie in the Netherlands, and the case itself. This is followed by recommendations for the communications process.
- Subjects
NETHERLANDS; NV Nederlandse Gasunie; COMPRESSORS; PUBLIC interest; RESIDENTS; SOCIAL responsibility of business; BUSINESS ethics
- Publication
Journal of Pipeline Engineering, 2009, Vol 8, Issue 2, p89
- ISSN
1753-2116
- Publication type
Article