Dr. Maria Petrova considers the numerous factors that shape public attitudes toward wind energy, including economic, aesthetic and environmental concerns. She explains differences of perception and experience in Falmouth, Hull and Kingston and how such views impact policy. Dr. Petrova received her PhD in Environmental Science from Oregon State University in 2010. Her research in Oregon focused on public acceptability of wave energy technology, a major renewable energy form there. She has emphasized the importance of public opinion in the shaping renewable energy policies. Dr. Petrova also does comparative research on renewable energy policies in the US and the EU. She won first place at the International Conference on Ocean Energy (ICOE) in Spain in 2010.