In this episode of CleanTalk, we're joined by Peter Elms, Co-Founder & Director of Alpaca Communications, the UK's leading communications agency for Net Zero infrastructure, to unpack the real mechanics behind winning planning consent for renewable energy projects.

Peter explains why lobbying isn’t a dirty word, how behavioural science and loss aversion shape public opposition, and why “net zero” has become a politically toxic phrase in parts of the UK. We dig into how developers should think about stakeholders, why trust is the real bottleneck, and how authentic storytelling, done carefully, could de-risk projects rather than endanger reputations.

This is a grounded, honest look at the intersection of politics, public opinion, and renewable energy development, and why better communication may be just as important as better technology.

Enjoy!

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Connect with Peter Elms on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-elms-89b82748/

Join the CleanTalk community on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12991627/

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CleanTalk is produced by Harmer Visuals, a film & media company specialising in brand & case study storytelling for organisations across the renewable energy and clean technology sector. To find out more about how we can help you, visit: https://www.harmervisuals.com

Many thanks to...

Recording space provider

Our rental suppliers -

O'RIORDAN | https://oriordan.io/ | Sunipa Pictures | https://www.sunipapictures.com/

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Chapters for today's episode:

00:00 - Intro

02:57 - Peter's Background

06:08 - Why Niching Helping The Business

08:56 - Co-Founder Dynamics

11:32 - What Role Comms Plays In Renewables Development

20:04 - How Politics Helps Or Hinders Energy Projects

25:35 - Social Media As A Comms Medium

29:42 - Strengths & Risks of Video Content

35:12 - Reflecting On Developers' Main Challenges

37:44 - Alpaca's 3-Phase Approach

42:12 - Quickfire Curiosity

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