ELSA Early Social Risk Diagnostic

When risk is visible, but not yet understood

In some projects, there is a growing sense of exposure.

• community concerns are emerging or expected
• the team is unsure how the project will be received locally
• engagement or design approaches feel uncertain or inconsistent
• there is a risk of delay, redesign or appeal

At this stage, the challenge is not only external.

The team may not yet have a clear, shared understanding of:

• what is driving resistance risk
• where the engagement or design process is weak
• what needs to change before issues escalate

A structured review of how social risk is forming

The Early Social Risk Diagnostic provides a focused assessment of how the project is evolving in relation to its context.

It includes:

• review of key project materials
• structured interviews with internal stakeholders
• optional input from a small number of external perspectives
• analysis using the Renewables AT PACE lens
• identification of how current approaches may influence future outcomes

The aim is to understand not just what is happening now — but what is likely to emerge if current patterns continue.

You leave with clear outputs and practical direction

The diagnostic provides a concise, structured output, including:

• a diagnostic report identifying key risk drivers
• an “early warnings” map showing where pressures are forming
• prioritised actions and sequencing
• recommended changes to engagement and project processes
• clear decision points and ownership

The output is designed to be actionable by the leadership team, not theoretical.

The outcome: clarity, alignment and earlier intervention

The diagnostic typically leads to:

• a clear understanding of what is creating social risk
• targeted changes to timing, design, governance and engagement
• improved alignment within the project team
• reduced likelihood of late-stage conflict, delay or redesign

Together, these strengthen local legitimacy and support, while there is still flexibility to shape both the project and its relationships.

Investment

Early Social Risk Diagnostics typically start from €12,500.
(typical range €12.5k–€18k depending on scope and number of interviews)

The focus is on identifying and addressing risk early, where changes are still possible and significantly less costly.

Led by John Aston 

John, ELSA’s lead creator, has helped tens of clients over the last 30 years, from junior companies to multi-million international corporations resolve local conflicts and sustainably build projects in shared space.

He is the Co-Operating Agent of the International Energy Agency Wind Task 62 on social science and wind energy - where he also represents Ireland.

John was part of the expert team who created AA1000 Stakeholder Engagement Standards, one of the leading stakeholder engagement standards in the world.