New polling data from the Pew Research Center has found that 61% of U.S. adults are in favor of the United States taking proactive steps to become net-zero by midcentury.
Across party lines there seems to be support for carbon neutrality with 66% of moderate Republicans, 88% of moderate Democrats, and 94% of liberal Democrats in support. Interestingly, almost one-third (28%) of self-identified conservative Republicans stated that they supported America reaching net zero by 2050.
In terms of how to get there, a vast majority (67%) of respondents stated that fossil fuels should play a role in America’s energy mix. Only 31% favor a complete phase-out of coal, natural gas, and oil. 69% of Americans also support an approach that focuses on energy innovation and clean power such as wind and solar.
With midterms around the corner and the situation in Ukraine bringing to light the importance of energy policies, this polling is indeed timely and important. American citizens understand that fossil fuels still have a role in our energy mix, but also recognize that a shift to carbon free power is necessary. Policymakers would be wise to unlock barriers to allow markets to deliver an “all of the above” energy portfolio that prioritizes energy security, reliability, and affordability.
