Table 1 Overview of benefits attributed to citizen participation and their expected impact

1

Contribution to the design and implementation of local climate action plans via deliberation with citizens and stakeholders by building upon their knowledge and understandings of the city

Increased deliberative and substantive quality of selected options, which will lead to formulation of more effective and sustainable local action plans. Increased likelihood for political uptake

[20, 21]

2

Increased acceptability. Less opposition towards the development of renewable energy technologies. Sense of ownership among citizens

Higher overall deployment rates of renewable energy technologies and higher number of climate action activities

[20, 22]

3

Development of knowledge and civil skills to learn about local issues and collective decision-making

Emergence of social networks among citizens arises

[22, 23]

4

Change pre-conceived lifestyle preferences of citizens towards more sustainable behaviour

Unlocking of the required long-lasting adaptive and transformative change of behaviour to tackle climate change

[16, 24]