Energy

A majority of Americans (57%) say they favor more nuclear power plants to generate electricity in the country, up from 43% who said this in 2020.

As the Earth’s temperature continues to rise, climate change remains a lower priority for some Americans, and a subset of the public rejects that it’s happening at all. To better understand the perspectives of those who see less urgency to address climate change, the Center conducted a series of in-depth interviews designed to provide deeper insight into the motivations and views of those most skeptical about climate change.

Two-thirds of Americans say the United States should prioritize developing renewable energy sources over expanding the production of fossil fuels.

About four-in-ten Americans (38%) say they’re very or somewhat likely to seriously consider an electric vehicle (EV) for their next vehicle purchase.

Large shares of Americans support the U.S. taking steps to address global climate change and prioritize renewable energy development in the country. Still, fewer than half are ready to phase out fossil fuels completely and 59% oppose ending the production of gas-powered cars.

While residential solar power generates just a fraction of the country’s overall electricity, it has continued to grow rapidly.

Overall, two-thirds of Americans support providing incentives to increase the use of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Yet renewable sources, like wind and solar, remain Americans’ overall priority for domestic production.

Majorities of Americans say the United States should prioritize the development of renewable energy sources and take steps toward the country becoming carbon neutral by the year 2050. But just 31% want to phase out fossil fuels completely, and many foresee unexpected problems in a major transition to renewable energy.

Among Republicans, support for increasing reliance on solar power is down from 84% last year to 73% today.