Public Backing Across the Political Spectrum
A recent YouGov survey reveals that 80% of Britons support expanding the UK’s renewable clean energy infrastructure, demonstrating broad consensus in favour of a cleaner, more secure energy future.
Notably, even Reform UK supporters, despite their party’s pledges to scrap renewable subsidies, show 65% in favour of renewables. Support from Conservative backers is even stronger, at 83%, indicating a clear divergence between grassroots sentiment and political posturing.
A Green Vision with Economic and Social Benefits
The survey also highlights widespread enthusiasm for policies that reinforce domestic industry and equitable opportunity:
- 76% of people back using moire UK-manufactured components in renewable projects.
- Support spans across the political divide, with Conservative, Green, Labour, and Reform voters all showing over 80% approval.
- 81% support expanding training and job opportunities in green industries such as offshore wind.
- 70% favour greater investment in UK manufacturing and wind turbines.
- 67% endorse further investments in UK steel manufacturing, with 81% of Reform supporters expressing support – higher than any other party.
These responses signal a public appetite for a renewable transition that also underpins local economies and addresses employment head-on.
Fairness at the Core of Climate Action
Beyond infrastructure and industry, the British public also values fairness in climate policy:
- 78% support requiring fossil fuel companies to contribute more toward funding environmental action.
- There is strong support for social measures, including:
- 80% for improving bus services,
- 77% for government assistance for insulating low-income households,
- 84% for rules requiring landlords to ensure minimum energy efficiency standards in rental properties.
A Critical Moment: The Climate Action Plan in the Balance
With less than 100 days until the government’s revised climate action plan is due by 29 October 2025.
Leading environmental organisation Friends of the Earth emphasises that this is a pivotal opportunity to translate public consensus into bold, equitable policy.
Mike Childs, head of science, policy and research at Friends of the Earth, remarks:
Transformative climate policies remain popular with voters of all stripes- particularly when they’re designed in a way that’s fair, or can help boost our struggling economy… Taking full advantage of our home-grown renewable resources can guarantee our energy security, bring bills down and even position the UK as a leading manufacturing power.”
The Message is Loud and Clear
The British public overwhelmingly supports expanding renewable energy, not just for environmental reasons but also because they see it as a route to energy security, lower bills, job creation, and a fairer economy.
With a landmark climate plan on the horizon, the government has a rare convergence of public backing and strategic opportunity. The direction it chooses now could define the UK’s clean energy and economic future for decades.
