NIA - The Nuclear Industry Association - Pollong shows public support for nuclear is soaring

Pollong shows public support for nuclear is soaring

SUPPORT FOR NEW NUCLEAR power stations is soaring among the UK public following a year of intense publicity around key policy decisions - and a changing economic outlook.

Latest public opinion polling by Ipsos MORI on behalf of the Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) shows broadening support for new nuclear based on worries over security of supply and climate change – and energy costs.

Opposition to new nuclear power stations is at its lowest level since polling began in 2002.

And new nuclear now gets a positive rating among all demographic groups following the polling of a representative sample of nearly 2,000 people.

The key outcomes of the research, to be launched at the NIA’s Energy Choices conference on 4 December are:

65% of the public support nuclear as part of a balanced energy mix (10% disagree)
44% of the public support the replacement of existing nuclear power stations, just 19% would oppose (the lowest figure recorded since polling began).
40% of the public would back an increased role for nuclear in the UK’s energy mix, only 24% would oppose further growth (a drop of 16 points in opposition since 2005).
Favourability to nuclear energy across the UK is at its highest peak in a decade.
The North-West has most support – probably based on the possible economic benefits of new nuclear – Scotland and Yorkshire are least favourable – but still positive on balance.
The public’s prime concern on nuclear remains the disposal of radioactive waste.

Energy Minister Mike O’Brien said: “ This research from MORI today is encouraging. The public view about nuclear is changing but we must recognise that some people still have concerns about waste, safety, security and whether new nuclear would mean less renewables.”

He added: “A transparent and open approach is important in building and maintaining public support for new nuclear power stations.”

NIA Chief Executive Keith Parker said the findings were the result of an open and transparent dialogue with the public over the UK’s future energy needs.
“The public are increasingly aware of the importance of tackling global climate change and the need to ensure secure and affordable supplies of energy for the UK.”

Mr. Parker added: “These results show that the public understands the crucial role that nuclear power plays in keeping the lights on and emissions down”.

On concerns over waste he said technological solutions existed and government was moving towards the creation of a long-term repository.

“We understand people’s concerns in this area but we must remember our waste is professionally managed and contained - and not released into the atmosphere to cause environmental damage. Overall, people recognise the benefits of secure, low carbon and stably-priced electricity that nuclear energy provides.”

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