As the UK is poised to unveil a new energy security strategy, research shows the most people want to see a range of renewable technologies prioritised for development.
Contrary to current political thinking, onshore wind is among the three most popular energy sources, with 38% of people wanting to see it prioritised for development in the UK, the Copper Consultancy survey found.
This support rises to 40% among Conservative voters.
Of this group, 37% of this group also said they would be most comfortable with having an onshore wind project proposed near them, as opposed to 34% of the general public.
The research also shows that 52% of Conservative supporters have become more likely to back proposed energy projects in their local area over the last six months, while only 3% are now less likely to support them.
These findings suggest the Government is unlikely to get the level of pushback that some ministers and MPs expect.
The nationally representative polling has shown that this recent increase in support for onshore wind holds for the general public too.
As 45% have become more supportive of energy projects, 6% are now less likely to back them.
This research also revealed that public opinion on the remainder of the Government’s energy priorities is in line with current political rhetoric.
Overall, 45% of respondents believe offshore wind should be prioritised, 37% support the expansion of large scale solar, and 24% back nuclear energy.
The energy and cost of living crises have inspired a radical policy rethink and industries previously considered taboo, such as fracking, are apparently back on the table.
As evidence of support for onshore wind mounts, we may well see another change of heart from Number 10.
Copper Consultancy Sam Cranston said: “Our research challenges current thinking, showing clear, continued public support for the UK’s transition to renewables.
“Consumers and voters want the Government to act now, to reduce bills and deliver energy supply security.
“Such public backing should boost confidence in, and throughout, the sector, as developers continue their sustained drive to help the UK achieve its net zero ambitions by 2050.”
The polling was conducted by Censuswide with 2,004 nationally representative people between 25 and 28 March 2021.