Growing interest in fossil fuels diminishes backing for renewable energy sources
In a striking turn of events, a survey published by Floodlight and later confirmed by the Pew Research Center has revealed a significant shift in American public opinion regarding energy sources.
One of the most notable findings is the increasing support for offshore wind, a technology that has been specifically targeted by former President Donald Trump. Despite this, 69% of respondents expressed their favour for offshore wind, a figure that is surprising to Kenneth Gillingham, a professor at the Yale School of the Environment.
However, the support for expansion of oil, coal, and natural gas has almost doubled, rising from 20% in 2020 to 39% today. This growth is particularly pronounced among Republicans, with support increasing from 35% in 2020 to 67% today.
Gillingham attributes this shift in opinion to the linking of climate change and renewable energy to broader culture war issues. He suggests that in the past, prominent Republicans supported renewables and sought solutions to climate change, but such stances may now be seen as disloyal to Trump.
The survey results also indicate growing opposition to solar farms and renewed support for coal plants. This shift in opinion started around the time Democratic President Joe Biden took office, according to Brian Kennedy, Pew senior researcher.
Interestingly, both Democrats and Republicans indicated stronger support for nuclear power. Republicans' favourable opinions increased from 53% in 2020 to 69% in 2025, while Democrats' support rose from 37% to 52%.
In contrast, the percentage of Americans favouring expansion of wind and solar production has decreased from 79% in 2020 to 60%. Similarly, Democrats also indicated less support for renewable energy and more for fossil fuels compared to five years ago.
The Trump administration signaled support for a nuclear renaissance, despite its high cost, while the survey by the Pew Research Center shows a decrease in support for renewable energy among both Republicans and Democrats compared to five years ago.
This shift in American public opinion on energy sources is a complex issue, with various factors contributing to the change. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and what impact they may have on the future of energy policy in the United States.
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