https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esr.2025.101727
Benjamin K. Sovacool, Bojana Novaković, Alexander A. Dunlap,
Sex for solar? Examining patterns of public and private sector corruption within the booming California solar energy market,
Energy Strategy Reviews,
Volume 59,
2025,
101727,
ISSN 2211-467X,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esr.2025.101727.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211467X25000902)
Abstract: Based on extensive research—including 38 interview respondents, four focus groups, participant observation, and extensive document analysis throughout Southeastern California—this article examines perceived patterns of corruption associated with a rapid boom in utility-scale solar energy investment and deployment. It identifies seven distinct corruption patterns over the recent period of 2010–2024. Clientelism is evident in the hiring of friends or colleagues on solar energy projects, and it is closely linked to favoritism, which refers to inefficiently allocating contracts, permits or licenses, at times in exchange for sex. Rent-seeking occurs in the diversion or capturing of public spending into private hands, and it can include land grabbing, or dispossessing groups of people of their communal or public land. Service diversion encompasses the avoidance of the distribution of local benefits. Theft includes the coercive removal of somebody else's equipment, property or cultural artifacts. Greenwashing refers to flawed impact assessments, as well as the overriding of environmental objectives or misleading the public about the environmental benefits of a project. Tax evasion refers to nonpayment or underpayment of taxes, or avoiding strategically the payment of local taxes. Non-transparency is evidenced in the hiding or failing to disclose relevant or important information. We conclude by calling for major reforms of the solar energy market and by identifying an agenda for future research.
Keywords: Corruption; Solar energy; Concentrated solar power; Energy policy
The California solar energy market has seen a significant boom, sparking debates about integrity and transparency within the sector. Research identifies seven key corruption patterns, including clientelism, where friends and colleagues secure jobs and contracts, often accompanied by favoritism. The concept of rent-seeking highlights misappropriation of public funds for private gain, which can manifest through land grabbing and service diversion, affecting local communities' access to benefits. Greenwashing, a term used to describe misleading environmental claims, is also prevalent, as companies distort their sustainability efforts in order to attract investments and consumer support. Tax evasion practices and non-transparency further exacerbate these issues by obscuring financial operations and accountability. These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to safeguard the future of solar energy and restore public trust in renewable initiatives. Stakeholders are encouraged to engage in discussions around policy change that prioritizes ethical investment frameworks and community involvement in solar energy projects.
