Download the fact sheet here and see the poll results here.
A Morning Consult survey of likely voters found that a majority of Americans said reliability and affordability are top concerns when it comes to the U.S. energy landscape – and they believe competitive electricity markets are more effective than energy monopolies at driving positive outcomes for the U.S. power grid. Voters voiced support for a carbon price or clean energy standard to reduce emissions.
Competitive electricity markets are viewed as more effective than energy monopolies at driving an array of positive outcomes for consumers, the energy sector, and the environment.
- 76% of U.S. adults say choice and competition among energy providers are important energy policy priorities, along with reliability, affordability, and environmental concerns.
- 76% say market competition is a driver to reduce energy costs, encourage technological innovation, and support a strong economy.
- 60% support closing struggling power plants rather than supporting them through higher utility bills and/or taxes on individuals.
Americans want affordable and reliable energy.
- 80% of U.S. adults say affordability (i.e., the cost of energy) is a top concern when considering America’s current energy landscape.
- 69% say reliability is a concern when it comes to energy in the U.S.
- 73% support choosing the most affordable path to reduce carbon emissions from the power sector, while also planning for reliability as the grid transitions.
U.S. adults see a role for natural gas to support reliable electric service in a cleaner energy future.
- 79% support maintaining some existing generating facilities, like natural gas plants, as backup options to renewable energy sources to ensure reliability.
- 67% support including natural gas in “clean energy” legislation—more than four times as many as the 14% who oppose.
To reduce emissions and achieve climate goals, majorities of Americans support carbon pricing and a Clean Energy Standard:
- 69% say they support a Clean Energy Standard to reduce emissions.
- 56% say they support a carbon pricing model to reduce emissions.
Download the fact sheet here and see the poll results here.
