“Public Attitudes toward Geothermal Energy projects in Geneva: From public concerns and warning signals to communication solutions”

The aim of the research project is to understand how information processing and motivated information search shape beliefs, emotions, and decisions. We will investigate how information processing strategies and subsequent judgments and decisions are influenced by (i) individual differences related to cognitive and affective traits and biases and (ii) aspects of the decision environment (e.g., information source, information framing). Given the high relevance of renewable energy projects for a successful energy transition, the project will especially focus on information processing with respect to geothermal energy systems. Thus,

an additional goal of the project is to identify evidence-based strategies to improve public communication on this topic.