Differences in Public Perception of Geothermal Energy in Korea: National vs. Local

Abstract

This study investigates the public perception differences in geothermal power generation at the national and local levels through media content analysis and survey analysis. Media content analysis results indicated that the previously positive media framing for environment and technology drastically changed to a negative framing of risk after the Pohang earthquake, and there were no significant differences between national and local coverage. However, survey data showed that the local perception of geothermal energy was significantly more negative than that at the national level. The proximity to the earthquake epicenter was negatively correlated with the perception of geothermal energy. Regarding energy source preferences among local residents, geothermal power plants and nuclear power plants were placed in the same category. Pohang residents seemed to associate geothermal power plants with nuclear power plants in terms of risk discourse. They viewed several similarities, i.e., high risks, between the two technologies. As a result of the Pohang earthquakes being byproducts of geothermal power generation, geothermal energy is recognized as a threat or potential danger rather than a risk-free and environment-friendly renewable energy source. To reduce the renewable energy perception gap between the national public opinion and the locals’ view, sufficient and carefully planned communications with local residents are required. Before introducing renewable energy to a region, a strategically planned science/technology education outreach venture accompanied by an honest risk assessment for the locals is essential.