Public rejects lifting of fracking ban as government displays renewed interest in fossil fuels

As the UK government announces the lifting of the fracking ban, new research reveals high levels of public hostility to sites near homes, with just 17 percent of UK adults and 29 percent of Conservative voters supporting the development of a fracking site within one mile of their property, even in exchange for a 50% discount on their electricity bill.

With the high cost of energy resulting in renewed interest in fracking in the UK as a source of fossil fuels, the government is set to face considerable backlash regarding plans to lift the ban on the controversial practice.

The new report, commissioned by global communications agency Diffusion, shows Conservative party voters more in tune with Boris Johnson’s departing vision of accelerating investment in new renewable energy plants to help lower people’s energy bills in the years ahead.

Solar Power:

The Temperature Check Report finds that support is highest for new solar power plants, with 73 percent of adults and 68 percent of Conservative voters, stating they would support their development within one mile of their home, in exchange for a 50% discount on their electricity bill. This is a saving that could equate to around £668 per year based on the new OFGEM price cap for electricity from Oct-Dec 2022.  Support for approving planning for solar farms on this basis is consistent across the UK, with 72 percent of adults in the South of England (excluding London) and 72 percent of adults in rural areas in favour.

Wind Power:

Diffusion’s research also finds that opposition to new sources of wind power could also be overcome if the same incentive package was offered to those who live closest to new wind farms.  Overall 67 percent of all adults and 59 percent of Conservative voters would support their development within one mile of their home, in exchange for a 50% discount on their electricity bill. Support for approving planning for wind farms on this basis is highest in the Midlands & Wales at 71 percent of adults, with 64 percent of adults in the South of England (excluding London) and 65 percent in rural areas, in favour.

Fracking fears:

As interest in fracking in the UK increases due to high energy costs, Diffusion’s report finds that just 8% of Labour voters and 10% of Lib Dem voters display support for the development of a fracking site within one mile of their property, even if they were to receive a 50% reduction in their electricity bill in exchange.

Total % of UK adults supporting the building of the following, within one mile of their home, if it meant that they got a discount of 50% on their electricity bills?