Abstract
Offshore wind planning and development have emerged alongside misinformation about projects and their impacts. Misinformation poses challenges for renewable energy planning and permitting, creating confusion, increasing polarization, and reducing meaningful community input and participation in energy decision-making. In this mixed-methods study, we examine misinformation from the perspective of individuals involved in the planning and permitting of two U.S. offshore wind projects: Vineyard Wind 1 and South Fork Wind. Qualitative interviews and a quantitative survey were conducted to investigate the perceived examples, sources, drivers, and impacts of misinformation. Misinformation was perceived as pervasive and spreading from both supporters and opponents of offshore wind. We identified multiple perceived drivers of offshore wind misinformation, including biased information reception and processing, a lack of trusted communicators, and missing information and uncertainty. Misinformation was also found to hinder offshore wind planning processes by exhausting time and resources and undermining communication. We conclude with recommendations for energy communication professionals to mitigate the spread and impact of misinformation.