Climate Positive Mobilizing local support for clean energy projects | Matt Traldi, Greenlight America
Aug 8, 2025
In this conversation, Matt Traldi, co-founder and CEO of Greenlight America, shares his expertise in grassroots advocacy for clean energy. He discusses how local dynamics significantly influence renewable energy projects, highlighting the importance of community engagement. Matt illustrates strategies for mobilizing local support, addressing opposition, and reducing permitting friction. He emphasizes the need for teamwork against misinformation and encourages listeners to embrace hope and action for a sustainable future.
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Local Permitting Is The Key Bottleneck
- Local permitting, not cost or technology, is the biggest obstacle to getting large clean energy projects built in the U.S..
- Projects often lose because opponents show up and supporters do not, not because of economic infeasibility.
Support Exists But Opposition Is More Motivating
- Clean energy enjoys broad public support but opposition benefits from higher motivation and ease of mobilization.
- It's often easier to stop a local project than to rally dispersed supporters to show up.
Choose Messengers For Credibility
- Match the messenger to the message so claims about local benefits come from trusted local figures like the school superintendent.
- Use messengers with direct credibility on the specific claim to shift public opinion effectively.