The interrelationships between renewable energy infrastructure and tourism: A thematic literature review

Abstract

Increasing demand for renewable energy and rapid tourism growth point to the need for a better overview of the factors affecting the compatibility of renewable energy infrastructure (REI) with tourism. This study aims to systematically review existing research on the interrelationships between REI and tourism, to identify their type and character and the factors affecting them, and to critically discuss planning and policy implications. Analysis of 61 original articles published in international peer-reviewed journals revealed opportunities for synergic relationships, but also showed REI can negatively impact tourist experience, leading to reduced tourism demand and economic loss. Three groups of factors shaping the interrelationships between REI and tourism were identified: (1) factors related to REI, (2) locational factors, and (3) factors related to tourism stakeholders. These factors should be considered while planning REI developments to ensure sustainable coexistence with tourism, but their role highly depends on the context surrounding each REI project. The findings highlight the importance of tourism stakeholder inclusion through participatory approaches in the early stages of renewable energy planning to ensure the identification and potential preservation of resources crucial for tourism.