| dc.description.abstract | In response to the escalating threat of human made climate change, mitigation measures are crucial. One of these measures is the departure from fossil fuels and the introduction of energy from renewable resources. As energy production is being moved closer to where people live, public acceptance has become a challenge that must be addressed. This research explores the dynamics of community acceptance, focusing on the emerging field of wave energy technology. Positioned approximately two decades behind wind energy, wave energy technology is deemed experimental, which adds an extra layer of complexities to its acceptance. The Wave Hub project in Cornwall, United Kingdom, and the research that addresses it, exemplifies the multifaceted challenges that arise when renewable energy projects intersect with recreational stakeholders, particularly surfers as the area is known for its waves. Inspired by the unique connection between surfers and waves, this thesis focuses on exploring how surfers in Jæren shape their perceptions of wave energy technology. The research question seeks to unravel how the relationship surfers have with the ocean, each other, and the sport of surfing shapes this perception. This thesis has a case study design, and qualitative interviews were conducted with a sample of 11 surfers who live in Jæren, supplemented with autoethnography. The surfers interviewed in Jæren expressed skepticism towards wave energy technology, primarily due to concerns about its potential impact on their surfing waves. The surfing community in Jæren was described as relatively young and scattered, with varying opinions on the feasibility of organizing campaigns to protect their waves. Past experiences with bird protection areas, associated board sport bans, and kelp trawling created distrust between surfers and local authorities, as they felt their voices were often ignored. Surfing, integral to their interaction ritual chains, forms a vital connection to Jæren, emphasizing the complex interplay between recreational communities, local environments, and emerging technology. | |