RenewableUK Hails Global Consumer Wind Study

RenewableUK, the trade and professional body representing the wind, wave and tidal energy industries has welcomed a new international survey of public attitudes to wind power.

The Global Consumer Wind Study, conducted by TNS Gallup for the turbine manufacturer Vestas, surveyed 24,000 consumers in 20 countries to provide a comprehensive reflection of public opinion on wind energy.

The results show that 85% of people want to see an increase in the use of renewable energy. Just 7% said they wanted their electricity supplied from fossil fuels.

In Britain, 78% expressed concern over this country’s dependence on fossil fuels, and 7 in 10 said they preferred renewable energy to conventional sources. When British consumers were questioned about supporting companies which use renewables, 67% of respondents said they would have a more positive perception of a brand if its main source of energy was wind.

Deputy Chief Executive of RenewableUK, Maf Smith, said:

“This report provides clear evidence that there is a huge public appetite around the world for more of our electricity to be generated from wind rather than fossil fuels.

“The overwhelming majority of consumers are demanding more wind energy – and that can be a driving force for change, powering our economy and tackling climate change. That’s why more and more top companies are opting to use wind power. Companies now have to be able to prove to their customers they’re acting responsibly by taking practical steps to protect our environment for future generations.”

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Press release, September 14, 2012; Image: Vattenfall