If the people were to decide, the energy package as proposed by the European Commission would pass with flying colours.

According to the survey in all European Member States, 87% of Europeans are concerned about the climate change. About the same number (82%) think that their energy use has an impact on the climate and 83% would support a minimum target for renewable energy sources. Almost two thirds (62%) of the citizens think EU-agreed measures are the best way to tackle energy-related issues.

There is less agreement on how such measures should be implemented. One third prefers taxing, one third thinks public funding of research would be the best option and the others think that prohibiting inefficient technologies would stimulate energy innovation best.

Nuclear energy is not generally seen as the best way to reduce CO2 emissions. About 60% of Europeans want to decrease the share of nuclear energy, and only 30% want to build more nuclear power plants.

This Friday however, at the European Spring Summit, it will not be the people, but the government leaders who will decide upon the Commission’s ambitious energy goals: at least 20% reduction of GHG emissions, 20% renewable energy and 20% extra energy efficiency by 2020.

Further information:

Link to Eurobarometer