Dr J Huck, Dr S Lindley
Applications accepted all year round
About the Project
Keywords: GIS, Environmental Impact Analysis
In order to meet our ever increasing demand for energy, it is necessary to create new power network infrastructure (pylons, substations, generators, etc.). Siting new infrastructure is frequently a source of concern for members of the public, who predict negative impacts upon themselves, the environment, or both. Though public opinion is gaining increasing recognition as a valuable source of information for decision makers, the methods by which those opinions can be collected are often quite rudimentary and poorly suited to the representation of complex spatial thoughts and feelings. This reduces the potential impact that the public can have upon decisions relating to the design of power network installations and often limits input only to the very early stages of the planning process. The result of this is that levels of public dissatisfaction with power network installations are often high, whilst planners are missing out on opportunities to engage the public in the decision making process, and so produce solutions with greater public acceptability.
This PhD research seeks to develop novel methods of spatial data collection to promote better public engagement in decision-making around power network infrastructure siting. For example, such developments could include the creation of novel participatory mapping (PPGIS) interfaces for data collection from the public, the deployment of small, low cost sensors to the public enabling them to make informed decisions about environmental impacts (e.g. noise), or the development of systems enabling the crowdsourcing of decisions (e.g. cable routing). The PhD would also need to consider how public opinion might be effectively balanced against other planning considerations such as cost and the protection of sites of natural and cultural heritage, and how the public may be empowered to understand these considerations in order to make informed choices.
Benefit to industry:
More effective analysis into the impact of proposed infrastructure leading to reduced costs at planning and more effectively located developments
Funding Notes
This project is funded by EPSRC, the University of Manchester and our Industry partners. Funding is available to UK candidates. EU candidates are also eligible if they have been studying or working continuously in the UK for three or more years (prior to the start date of the programme). The successful candidates will have their fees paid in full and will receive an enhanced maintenance stipend.
See here for information on how to apply and entry requirements: http://www.power-networks-cdt.manchester.ac.uk/study/projects-apply/
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