Scottish public backs renewables
A YouGov poll ahead of the general election has identified that 79% of individuals believe the next Government should implement policies to continue in the development of renewable energy. This is in comparison to 26% who supported fracking for shale gas, 45% who supported new nuclear power stations and 49% in favour of building or extension of coal and gas-fired power stations.
The survey was commissioned by Scottish Renewables. 63% of respondents agreed the next Government should advance policies to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. 14% did not agree.
Director of Policy at Scottish Renewables, Jenny Hogan said:
“These poll results illustrate the strength of support for renewables among Scotland’s electorate. It is the only energy option that a majority of potential Scots voters say they would support.”
“I believe this survey reflects the fact that most people in Scotland accept we must continue to change the way we power and heat our homes and businesses in order to tackle climate change.”
“Renewable electricity generation in Scotland has doubled in recent years, and we hope that all the main political parties will continue to back the growth of our sector after May’s General Election – which certainly looks like the wish of potential Scottish voters.”
“Scottish Renewables has always campaigned for the development of renewable energy as part of a wider and balanced energy mix, but it is clear that there is limited support amongst the public for new gas, coal or nuclear power stations, and even less for the use of fracking to access onshore oil and gas reserves.”