RenewableUK is highlighting the record level of public support for onshore wind in the latest opinion poll commissioned by the Government on the public’s views on energy and climate change. The Public Attitudes Tracker, published today by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy today, shows that 79% of people support onshore wind, beating the previous record of 76%, set in April 2018. The poll also shows that a new high of 80% of the public are concerned about climate change. Onshore wind is currently excluded by Minsters from competing in auctions for contracts to generate power, despite the Government’s own opinion polls showing that this technology – which is the cheapest way to produce new electricity – consistently enjoys overwhelming public support. Support for wave and tidal power also reached a new record high of 82% (up from 81% set last April). These technologies are not currently supported by Government policy either, even though public support has remained high since the official Government polls began in 2012. Support for offshore wind remains at a record high of 83%, equalling the record set last April.
Renewable UK 9th May 2019 read more »