More than 50% more people would back a renewable energy project – like solar panels on a school roof – if it was community-owned instead of run by the private sector, a poll has found
Brits overwhelmingly back the idea of renewable energy projects that are owned by the local community rather than big businesses.
More than 50% more people would back a renewable energy project in their area if it was community-owned instead of run by the private sector, a poll has found.
Some 62% of those surveyed would support a community-owned renewable energy project in their area, compared to 40% support for a privately-owned project.
Labour plans to expand such projects through its ‘Local Power Plan.
In September, Ed Miliband promised the plan would let voters “take back control of our energy” – with suggestions including solar panels on schools or housing estates.
The poll also found 53% of those polled would be likely to reduce their energy consumption in support of a community energy project – with 24% prepared to volunteer their time to help.
Adam Khan, Principal Analyst at Common Wealth, said: “These results show community owned renewable energy is popular, and much of the public is keen to get involved.
“The Local Power Plan can help enable an inclusive transition that widens ownership and benefits communities but to achieve this it needs investment in community capacity building and a focus on diversity.”
Mathew Lawrence, Director of Common Wealth, said: “The results are startling: if they are given a genuine stake, the public are eager to participate in the energy transition and support new clean power infrastructure.
“This is a huge opportunity for the government. If it can unlock a new generation of community-owned renewables, GB Energy’s Local Power Plan would be met with public support.
“Community power is a win:win – getting off expensive fossil fuels quicker, bringing down bills, and giving people a real stake in the transition.”
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