YouGov poll: 53% of UK public support new nuclear power

A recent YouGov survey reveals that over half of the UK public, 53%1, want to see more nuclear power stations built and prefer this energy source to any others. This finding challenges existing plans for plant closures and highlights a growing public recognition of nuclear energy's role in ensuring reliable electricity, creating skilled jobs, and bolstering the nation's energy security.

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The shifting landscape of UK public opinion on nuclear power

Public sentiment towards nuclear power in the UK is undergoing a notable shift, with recent polling data indicating strong support for its expansion. This evolving perspective highlights a broader understanding of nuclear energy's strategic importance for the country's future.

Key findings from the latest YouGov poll

A YouGov poll, conducted on behalf of the Nuclear Industry Association (NIA), found that 53% of the British public support the construction of new nuclear power stations. This figure stands in contrast to just 22% who oppose such projects, demonstrating a clear majority in favour of expanding the UK's nuclear capacity. The survey also revealed significant public trust in nuclear power's economic benefits, with 36% of respondents believing it will create new jobs and attract investment across the UK. This compares to just 14% who chose solar and offshore wind as their top pick for powering homes, and 12% for gas.

Challenging existing energy policy narratives

The strong public backing for new nuclear power comes at a critical juncture for UK energy policy. Currently, most of the UK's existing nuclear plants are set to close by 2030, with only Sizewell B in Suffolk planned to continue operating until 2055, following a 20-year life extension. This planned phase-out contrasts sharply with the public's desire for expansion, suggesting a potential disconnect between current policy trajectories and public sentiment regarding the future energy mix.

Why is public support for nuclear power growing?

Several factors underpin the increasing public support for nuclear energy, ranging from concerns about energy supply to its economic and environmental advantages.

Energy security and reliability concerns

Amidst global energy market volatility, the public increasingly views nuclear power as a crucial component of energy security. Nuclear power delivers reliable, baseload electricity, which is essential for "keeping the lights on" and protecting households from the impact of volatile gas markets on electricity prices. The YouGov poll highlighted this, with 43% of respondents identifying nuclear as the most important energy source for keeping the lights on, ahead of solar (14%) and gas (12%).

Economic benefits and job creation

The potential for economic growth and job creation is a significant driver of public support. Nuclear projects are associated with highly skilled, well-paid jobs and substantial investment in local communities. The civil nuclear industry in Britain already employs nearly 100,000 people, a figure that has seen significant growth, driven by new build projects like Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C. This perception of nuclear as a job creator significantly outstrips that of other low-carbon technologies in public opinion.

Contribution to Net-Zero targets

As the UK strives to meet its Net-Zero carbon emissions target by 2050, nuclear power is recognised for its role in providing low-carbon electricity. The life extension of plants like Sizewell B aligns with the government's strategy to maintain baseload low-carbon generation, complementing intermittent renewables and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This positions nuclear as a vital technology for decarbonisation.

Nuclear power's role in the UK's energy mix

Nuclear power is a significant, though evolving, part of the UK's electricity generation landscape. Its future role is being shaped by both ongoing projects and public demand.

Current capacity and future projects

While most of the UK's current nuclear fleet is scheduled for closure by 2030, the extension of Sizewell B until 2055 provides a bridge for baseload power. Beyond this, the UK has plans for new large-scale projects, including Sizewell C, and is exploring the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to quadruple nuclear capacity to 24 GW by 2050. These projects aim to ensure a stable supply of clean energy for millions of homes.

Comparison with other low-carbon technologies

The YouGov poll indicates a public preference for nuclear power in terms of reliability and job creation when compared to other low-carbon sources. While polls routinely show support for wind and solar projects, nuclear is seen as a key generator of reliable power. This suggests a public understanding of the complementary roles different low-carbon technologies play in achieving a balanced and secure energy mix.

Implications for UK energy policy and investment

The clear public support for nuclear power has significant implications for future energy policy and investment decisions in the UK.

Responding to public demand

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) tracks public attitudes towards energy infrastructure and security. The latest YouGov findings provide a strong signal that the public is ready for an expansion of nuclear capacity. This public backing could empower policymakers to accelerate plans for new nuclear builds and life extensions, aligning policy more closely with public desire for energy security and economic benefits.

Investment in new nuclear infrastructure

The sustained public support creates a more favourable environment for investment in new nuclear infrastructure. This includes not only large-scale plants but also the development and deployment of SMRs, which promise quicker development timelines and potentially lower costs. Such investment is crucial for delivering the UK's energy security and Net-Zero ambitions.

Powering the future: an abundant energy vision

The public's growing trust in nuclear power aligns with a broader vision for energy abundance, challenging long-held assumptions about energy scarcity.

From scarcity to abundance: a new mindset

For decades, energy discussions have often been framed by a scarcity mindset, focusing on using less. Fuse Energy believes in building a future with "power to play with" - a world where energy is so abundant it stops being a thing you think about. The public's desire for more nuclear power reflects a demand for greater energy capacity and security, mirroring Fuse's focus on providing more energy and capability to customers. This shift in public attitude suggests a collective move away from outdated energy narratives towards reliable, abundant sources like nuclear fission.

The long-term potential of nuclear energy

The public's growing trust in nuclear fission as a low-carbon power generation method serves as a critical bridge towards a future of truly abundant energy. Fuse Energy's long-term commitment includes working towards nuclear fusion, which represents the ultimate expression of energy abundance. This forward-looking perspective, integrating current public sentiment with future energy potential, underscores how reliable and clean energy sources can empower individuals and drive economic growth, aligning with Fuse's mission to deliver abundant, clean energy.

Ready to take control of your home's energy? Fuse Energy offers clear pricing and 24/7 human customer support to help you manage your electricity and gas. Switching is quick and easy, so you can start enjoying a modern energy experience designed around you. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. You can also learn more about our mission to build a future with power to play with by clicking here.

References

1. Energy Live News. New nuclear supported by 53% of the public