Public support for onshore wind hits record high amid mounting concern over 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. 

RenewableUK’s Deputy Chief Executive Emma Pinchbeck said: “The Government is being told by industry, consumer groups, the National Infrastructure Commission, its own climate advisors, devolved governments, international investors and now a record breaking 79% of the public and billpayers, to change their policies and support onshore wind. What exactly is stopping them? In a climate emergency, we need to use every tool in the box”.