Europeans say ‘yes’ to alternative energy sources, but not if it means making big changes in their lifestyles

Despite EU survey showing popularity of green policies, consumers still reluctant to abandon cars for public transport

By Tania Georgiopoulou - Kathimerini

Europeans are all in favor of renewable energy sources — as long as they do not impinge upon their habits and, above all, do not affect their use of their cars, according to a recent European Union survey.

Energy is both heavily used and is also extremely expensive. It has been estimated that by 2030, 70 percent of Europe’s energy requirements, which are increasing by 1-2 percent a year, will be imported. Europeans’ dependence on mineral fuels for producing energy will amount to 90 percent of the total, with a resulting increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

A changeover to alternative sources will require the consent of the public, which prompted the European Commission to investigate the attitudes of the public in the 25 member states on EU energy policy.

Nearly half (47 percent) of those surveyed would prefer that decisions related to energy production and the ensuing release of gases that lead to climatic change be taken at European level. Over a third (37 percent) believe that these decisions need to be taken at national level and 8 percent at local level.

Most said they would prefer alternative sources in order to help the environment and appeared willing to learn how to use less energy.

Almost half believe that national governments should fund these alternative sources — 41 percent favor solar energy, 31 percent wind energy. Less popular was the idea of introducing laws to reduce the dependence on mineral fuels (with just 23 percent in favor). Meanwhile, just 12 percent favored greater use of nuclear energy.

Most say they would like to consumer less energy, particularly if it means paying lower energy bills, but are unsure as to how to go about it. Forty-three percent would like to learn more about how to save energy and 40 percent would support steps to conserve energy.

Eight in 10 seriously consider energy consumption when buying a product, especially cars and refrigerators, although not as much when buying light bulbs.

Interestingly, there is greater concern in the EU’s newer members states about energy consumption. Forty percent of Europeans said they would be willing to pay more for energy production from renewable sources, but when questioned on their willingness to change their daily habits in order to reduce consumption, they are not so sure.

Only two in 10 Europeans said they were willing to use their cars “considerably less often” and just three in 10 “slightly less often.” The Czechs, Slovaks, Poles and Austrians were the most open to changing their car use habits, while the Irish, Cypriots, Maltese and Danes were the least likely to do so.