Polling conducted by YouGov for the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) has found the Government’s recent clean energy announcements have struck a chord with the public.

Around two-thirds (64 per cent) were aware of the policy to set up of ‘Great British Energy’ with a similar number (68 per cent) supportive of the announcement. Half were aware of the new Government’s policy of ending the ban on onshore wind with 60 per cent supporting that move, when asked.

Around half were also aware of the Government’s policy of approving new solar farms and three-quarters (74 per cent) supportive of this.

But it isn’t all good news, support is lower for removing the ‘winter fuel allowance’ payments from pensioners, with only 28 per cent supporting the cut.

The top response from the public for what would qualify as success for Labour’s policies to boost clean energy is increasing UK ‘energy independence’ (44 per cent), reducing reliance on foreign energy, followed by lowering energy bills (42 per cent).

Commenting on the findings, Alasdair Johnstone of ECIU said: “On an election campaign which saw energy security as one of the key dividing lines, the public endorsed a prospectus which focused on more energy independence, delivered through renewable energy, and so less reliant on energy imports. Likewise, the public clearly see clean energy as the UK’s best route to economic growth. Is Treasury now going to deliver on the promises, incentivising the private sector investment that will match voters’ vision?”

Economic growth was a key theme in the election debate and when asked what the biggest growth opportunity for the UK in the next five years is, the British public put renewable energy and clean technology at the top of the list with 51 per cent selecting it.

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