Solar farms and fracking: public attitudes

Three in five respondents (60%) said they would choose a solar farm in their area, compared with just one in ten (10%) who would opt for fracking. This indicates substantially higher public support for renewable energy infrastructure relative to fossil fuel extraction when framed as a direct choice.

Among voters who indicated support for Reform UK, the polling also shows a notable preference for solar over fracking. When asked to choose between the two options, 43% selected solar farms, compared with 23% who chose fracking. This suggests that, even within segments of the electorate often associated with support for fossil fuel development, renewable energy may command greater local acceptance.

The polling further explored attitudes towards related energy infrastructure. Nearly three in five respondents (58%) supported the construction of electricity pylons, compared with 18% who opposed them. 

When the role of pylons in connecting renewable energy projects to the grid was highlighted, support remained high, with 53% in favour despite potential visual impacts. Among Reform voters, 46% supported new pylons compared with 33% who opposed them.

Additional polling referenced in the release indicates that support for renewable energy technologies among Reform voters extends beyond solar. Previous surveys found that 59% support solar farms, 56% support onshore wind, and 66% support offshore wind. These findings suggest that backing for renewable energy is relatively broad-based, even among groups where national political discourse may emphasise alternative approaches.

Overall, the polling highlights a consistent pattern of stronger support for renewable energy infrastructure compared with fracking, both across the general population and within specific voter groups.