Publication - Measuring Social Impact in Renewable Energy Sector: Developing KPIs for a Just and Inclusive Transition
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Title
Measuring Social Impact in Renewable Energy Sector: Developing KPIs for a Just and Inclusive Transition
Publisher
SSRN
Author
Anjanappa, Janardhana
Published in
June 2025
Abstract
This study highlights the urgent need to develop specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to effectively measure the social impacts of companies, with a focus on the renewable energy sector. While environmental and financial KPIs are well developed, social metrics remain vague and inconsistent, making it difficult to assess a firm's full sustainability performance and its contributions to inclusive development. Using a qualitative research design, the study analyses secondary data from corporate sustainability and integrated reports. A thematic content analysis was conducted to identify how companies define and report on their social responsibilities. Key social impact areas identified include community engagement, human rights and labor practices, responsible supply chains, inclusive business activities, and employee welfare. The findings reveal that although companies show growing awareness of social issues, there are major gaps in outcome-based reporting. Most reports focus on inputs (e.g., spending, training hours) rather than real impacts (e.g., changes in income or well-being). Supply chain transparency, inclusive business outcomes, and linkage to corporate strategy are also weak areas. The study proposes a set of social KPIs based on the identified themes. These KPIs aim to provide firms with practical tools to measure and improve their social footprint, and better align business operations with inclusive and sustainable development goals. This research adds value by offering a structured approach to social performance measurement using qualitative insights, supporting companies, investors, and stakeholders in making informed and responsible decisions.
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