4 Dec (NucNet): A majority of UK citizens support nuclear power as part of a balanced energy mix, according to a new national opinion poll released today.
The poll by Ipsos MORI*, on behalf of the UK’s Nuclear Industry Association (NIA), shows opposition to new nuclear is at its lowest level since polling on the issue began in 2002, the NIA said.
Key indicators of public support from the poll were released today at the NIA’s annual Energy Choices conference in London. Highlights include:
• 65 percent of respondents support nuclear as part of a balanced energy mix (10 percent disagree);
• 44 percent support the replacement of existing nuclear power plants, while 19 percent would oppose (the lowest figure recorded since polling on the issue began);
• 40 percent of the public would back an increased role for nuclear in the UK’s energy mix, only 24 percent would oppose further growth (a drop of 16 points in opposition since 2005).
The NIA, the trade association and representative voice of Britain’s civil nuclear industry, said favourability to nuclear energy across the UK is at its highest peak in a decade. Most support comes from the north-west of the country, which the NIA said is “probably based on the possible economic benefits of new nuclear”. Scotland and Yorkshire are least favourable, “but still positive on balance”.
The disposal of radioactive waste continues to be the main concern of the general public concerning nuclear, the NIA added.
Energy minister Mike O’Brien said the poll results were 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 said.
NIA chief executive officer Keith Parker said: “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, Mr Parker said technological solutions existed and the 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.”
