Information flow to increase support for tidal energy development in remote islands of a developing country: agent-based simulation of information flow in Flores Timur Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Background Public awareness is crucial for successful deployment of tidal energy, a renewable energy source that can provide clean electricity to remote islands. However, considering public attitudes on tidal energy are not well known, especially in developing countries, a barrier exists in implementing public engagement strategies. This study aims to contribute by identifying strategies for information provision—the initial step in public engagement—and estimate how these can be engaged to enhance support for tidal energy among the local public in a remote area of a developing country, in this case, Flores Timur Regency, Indonesia, considering their socio-cultural background. Methods In this paper, we employ statistical analyses using multinomial probit modelling to identify the key variables that shape information flow. The aptness of the variables is then verified using post-estimation techniques for their use as input parameters for the simulation of the information flow in the field study area. Agent-based simulation (ABS) is employed to replicate the actual conditions in Flores Timur Regency, Indonesia, and simulate the flow of information through the local community. Results According to the multinomial probit estimations, the people belonging to the top hierarchical group show a higher probability to support tidal energy compared to the members belonging to the lower groups. Understandably, around twice as many information flow cycles are needed to disseminate information to the members of the lowest hierarchical group, compared to the members of the top hierarchical group. The results also show that increasing the amount of available information has a positive impact on information dissemination. Conclusions This study demonstrated that information provision is highly effective with propagation of information that specifically highlights the individual benefits, rather than the community benefits of tidal energy. Additionally, savings in terms of costs, time, and efforts can be realized if the most influential members of the local community are targeted initially before including all other stakeholders. The study also indicated that locals absorb more information and increase their support for tidal energy when additional data is made available. Finally, as long-term strategy, information provision becomes most effective when the local population gains higher educational capabilities.

Tidal current power in Capalulu strait, North Maluku: A feasibility study

“…Rural areas often face considerable challenges in accessing and securing reliable energy sources, exacerbated by factors such as low population density, limited economic activity, inadequate infrastructure, and geographical isolation. Traditional energy options may be scarce or prohibitively expensive in these contexts, leaving communities vulnerable to energy insecurity and economic hardship (Hanley & Nevin, 1999;Ramachandran et al, 2021). However, the inherent predictability of tidal energy presents a compelling solution to these challenges, offering a consistent and renewable source of power that can be harnessed to meet the needs of remote and underserved areas.…”

“…By leveraging these natural assets and investing in the development of tidal energy infrastructure, Indonesia can empower rural communities, stimulate economic growth, and advance its broader objectives of achieving energy security and environmental sustainability. Thus, tidal energy stands poised to play a transformative role in enhancing the resilience and prosperity of rural communities across the Indonesian archipelago (Ramachandran et al, 2021). ASELI (2014), Firdaus et al (2017 and Pratama (2020), summarized the potential sites for tidal energy in Indonesian Waters.…”