More than three quarters of UK consumers believe that investment in sustainable infrastructure is crucial for future generations, a new study by E.ON has found.
According to the survey of 1,000 people, more than two thirds (68%) believe that investment in solutions such as battery storage and heat networks should be a national priority, while 82% agreed with the need to equip the next generation with ‘green collar’ jobs and skill sets.
‘A huge public appetite’
“There’s a huge public appetite for a more sustainable future – and the challenge now is turning this ambition for investment in innovation into action,” commented Vijay Tank, chief operating officer at E.ON Energy Infrastructure Solutions.
Other takeaways from the survey include that 72% see better urban planning, including investment in energy-efficient housing and improved public transport, as a key means to support a growing population while also reducing environmental impact.
Regional differences
Regional differences emerged, however, with urban residents focusing on renewable energy (74%) and better public transport (67%); suburban communities emphasising energy-efficient housing (63%) and improved green spaces (58%); and rural areas highlighting the need for more EV charging stations (62%) and renewable energy solutions (60%).
Elsewhere, more than half (52%) of respondents believe that the government and private sector need to accelerate efforts to meet net-zero targets, while 57% are concerned that green initiatives might be too expensive for the average household.
“At E.ON, we’re not only helping people and businesses to embrace home-grown, renewable energy but we have the scale to work with whole communities to develop the infrastructure that makes sustainability practical and accessible for everyone,” Tank added.
“We’re proud to partner with councils, businesses and communities to deliver the transformation needed in housing, transport and energy. By working together, we can create opportunities for everyone, all while driving the energy transition to benefit both people and the planet.” Read more here.
