A new survey from the Conservative Energy Network (CEN) shows strong support for clean energy and climate solutions across the political spectrum. The survey was conducted in November of 1,000 likely voters across the country.
The survey was split evenly among political partisans, with 40 percent supporting a Republican candidate for Congress and 42 percent supporting a Democrat, and 18 percent undecided. A majority of respondents, 53 percent, disapprove of the job Joe Biden is doing as president.
Perhaps the biggest takeaways are that nearly 75 percent of respondents would be more likely to support a Republican candidate who embraces new technologies and innovation in addressing climate change. Further, an overwhelming 80 percent believe it is important for a candidate for political to support their opinion on clean energy issues and 84 percent support the government taking action to accelerate the development and use of clean energy in the U.S.
“This year’s survey results confirm that all Americans across the political spectrum want to see more clean energy production that is American-made,” said Mark Pischea, president and CEO of CEN. “90% of Americans view climate change as a threat to some extent. Over the last year, we have seen conservatives across all levels of government begin to tackle this issue head on.”
The survey also reflected a growing demand for domestic energy production – already high but now the increasing push for domestic production may start stretching into the manufacture of components for clean energy development, 91 percent of respondents support increasing the domestic supply chain for this purpose. It is unclear if we have the resources needed to match the demand but another 84 percent supported increasing domestic mining operations for rare earth minerals, like the type needed for solar panels and electric vehicle batteries.
On the top international issues for the U.S. regarding climate, holding large greenhouse gas emitters – like China and Russia – accountable came out on top with 34 percent. Second on the list was re-negotiating tariffs to prioritize cleaner U.S. energy production.
For nuclear advocates – who pitch nuclear as a critical piece of clean energy infrastructure, the survey had some bad news. Only 37 percent of respondents wanted to see more emphasis on producing nuclear power. This is borne out by reality though, outside of Plant Vogtle there is no other nuclear power under construction in the United States. Little public support means there is little political appetite to take on the issue of nuclear power.
To see the full results of the poll, click here.
