Paper short abstract:

The research addresses the power relations and public controversies at stake behind the cultural actions sponsored by energy providers. As we draw attention to the normative influence of public relations programs in the energy sector, we also consider the resistances to which they are subjected.

Paper long abstract:

This paper focuses on cultural activities using energy infrastructures as key attractions: "coal safari tours", trails in wind farms or along hydroelectric dams, visitor centres in nuclear power plants, electricity museums, energy heritage, etc. The research addresses the power relations and public controversies at stake behind the cultural actions sponsored by energy providers. As we draw attention to the normative influence and the strategic purposes of public relations (PR) programs in the energy sector, we also consider the resistances (both organised and spontaneous) to which they are subjected. The work of Douglas Rogers (2014) on "social and cultural projects" accomplished under the banner of "corporate social responsibility" (CSR) by an important oil-company in post-socialist Russia is a good illustration of how energy providers are increasingly solicited to fulfil political missions. This situation creates a new field of state and corporate power which Boyer describes as an "energopolitical regime". Here, "energopower" (Boyer, 2014) is not only considered as an infrastructural power that shape the formation of cities, but also as a soft power that ingrains representations and practices through communication campaigns and artistic/educational projects.