Choosing the Right Public Affairs Partner

Developers should look for a firm with experience navigating local approval processes and turning community engagement into measurable action.

     The right partner should understand local decisionmakers, conduct stakeholder research, build relationships with potential supporters and prepare for public participation. Developers should also ask for documented examples of relevant work and verifiable outcomes.

     Public affairs cannot guarantee approval, but it can help project teams anticipate challenges, respond to concerns and build informed community support.

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Preparing for Project Approval

Rural energy project approvals require more than regulatory compliance. Developers need to understand local dynamics and take action to build support before the approval process reaches its most visible stages.

     At Davies, we help energy developers turn community engagement into action through stakeholder research, targeted outreach, coalition building and supporter activation. Our work focuses on generating support, securing letters for the appropriate authorities and turning supporters into vocal advocates who participate in public hearings.

     The earlier developers understand their community and take action to build support, the better prepared they are to navigate the path to approval.

An energy project can meet technical requirements and still face significant challenges at the county level. Local land-use rules, community concerns, political dynamics and public hearings can all influence whether a project moves forward.

     For developers, successful project planning requires more than a strong permit application. It requires understanding who makes decisions, what matters to the community and how to build support before opposition takes hold.

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Understand the Local Approval Process

Every county has its own governing structure, land-use history and approval requirements. Developers need to understand which officials and agencies have decision-making authority, what permits are required and how local concerns may affect the process.

     Early preparation helps project teams identify potential challenges, coordinate regulatory milestones and develop an engagement strategy tailored to the community.

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Build Community Support Early

Waiting until opposition emerges to begin outreach can put developers at a disadvantage. By then, concerns may already be shaping public opinion while potential supporters remain unaware of the project or its benefits.

     Early engagement helps developers understand community priorities, address questions and identify potential supporters. Conversations with neighboring property owners, local businesses, agricultural organizations and other stakeholders can reveal concerns that may be addressed before public hearings.

     Research and direct outreach also help developers communicate project benefits in ways that resonate locally rather than relying on generic messaging.

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Turn Engagement Into Action

Effective public affairs goes beyond sharing information. Developers need a plan to address concerns, build relationships and encourage informed participation in the approval process.

     This includes preparing accurate project materials, tracking stakeholder questions, coordinating responses and helping voluntary supporters understand how to participate in public meetings.

     Public hearing preparation should begin well before a hearing is scheduled. Identifying potential advocates, anticipating questions and preparing project representatives helps ensure the project is ready when public participation matters most.​​