Comment on BEIS public attitudes survey

“It’s notable that this survey shows public support for onshore wind at its highest ever level, just at a time when the Government is signalling that it is open to finding a route to market for new projects. With just 2% of the population strongly opposed to what it the cheapest form of new electricity generation, this polling suggests that the time is clearly ripe for a review of the Government’s de-facto ban on new onshore wind to be in tune with public opinion.

“Solar power continues to be the UK public’s favourite source of electricity, yet the industry continues to struggle following sharp cuts in support under the coalition Government. We are seeing a stream of projects beginning to resurface, but progress could be much faster were ministers to allow all low-carbon electricity sources to compete on an even footing in the next round of energy auctions.

“The Government is rightly proud of the litany of recent records around renewable output, tumbling coal use, and the cleanliness of our power sector, but without further action, this progress risks stalling. The challenge, therefore, is developing further policies to support ministers’ admirably ambitious rhetoric."