PhD: Socio-Economic Value of Community Benefit Approaches in Renewable Electricity (EnerHy CDT, University of Strathclyde) University of Strathclyde in United Kingdom

This PhD position is offered within the EnerHy Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) at the University of Strathclyde, an EPSRC-funded programme dedicated to research and training in renewable energy and hydrogen technologies. The CDT is led by the University of Strathclyde, which provides expertise in wind and renewable energy research. This particular PhD studentship, funded by ESB and EPSRC, focuses on the intersection of economics and energy policy, specifically examining community benefit funds and their economic impact in the context of renewable electricity projects.

The research aims to understand how renewable energy developments generate socio-economic value for local and regional communities, and how different approaches to community benefit design affect the scale, timing, and distribution of those impacts. The successful candidate will explore mechanisms such as community benefit funds, shared ownership models, revenue-sharing arrangements, and other policy-driven approaches used to distribute benefits from renewable electricity projects, including onshore wind and solar PV. The project will draw on case studies from the UK and international markets, applying socio-economic impact assessment methods such as social accounting matrix (SAM) modelling to evaluate how governance structures and benefit-sharing mechanisms influence job creation, economic activity, and long-term community outcomes.

The ultimate goal is to develop evidence-based frameworks and standardised metrics to support developers, policymakers, and communities in designing more effective and equitable approaches to sharing the benefits of renewable energy, contributing to a just energy transition. The research is highly interdisciplinary, spanning economics, energy policy, engineering, and geography.

This is a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship. The package includes full payment of UK tuition fees, a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum to cover living costs, and an additional £3,000 per annum for consumables, travel, and related expenses. A substantial Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) is provided each year to support travel, training, and consumables, with further funding available for outreach and development activities.

Applicants must hold a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in Economics, Energy Policy, Engineering, Geography, or other relevant areas. Overseas/EU applications are accepted until 31 May 2026, while Home/UK applications are accepted until all places are filled. No explicit language test or other requirements are mentioned.

To apply, candidates should submit their CV, cover letter, and transcripts via the online application portal and email the documents to the supervisors, Dr J Carroll and Mr A Smith. Early application is advised for Home/UK candidates as places may fill before the official deadline of 31 August 2026.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in the socio-economic impacts of renewable energy, community benefit mechanisms, and policy-driven approaches to equitable energy transitions. The EnerHy CDT provides a vibrant research environment, access to leading experts, and strong support for professional development.