British public places higher importance on new infrastructure to boost energy security than visual impact of new projects

New polling across England, Scotland and Wales shows strong public backing for the UK’s energy infrastructure programme, with clear priorities centred on jobs, climate change and economic strength, rather than visual appearance.

The results of the polling, undertaken by Early Studies and commissioned by a group of leading energy trade associations, challenge a long-standing assumption in planning debates. They find that visual impact, which is often cited as a leading objection, is in fact the lowest-ranked concern for the public, with just 11% of respondents selecting it as a main consideration for future energy needs.

This view is consistent across the political spectrum, from 12% of Labour and Conservative voters to 11% of Reform UK voters and 10% of both Liberal Democrat and Green Party voters, highlighting near unanimous national alignment.

Instead, the public is focused on the practical outcomes of energy infrastructure such as lower bills, secure livelihoods and a strong, growing economy.

Significantly larger portions of the public prioritise industrial competitiveness (39%), reducing air pollution (37%) and protecting existing jobs (25%).

Importantly, this does not mean people and developers are unconcerned about where and how infrastructure is built. Rather, it shows that visual impact is not as high a priority as is often presented in planning debates, and the public is prepared to support infrastructure that drives growth and job creation even when there is a visual impact.

It remains essential, however, for infrastructure developers to continue working with communities, particularly in areas where we are seeing cumulative impacts from development of multiple projects.

The findings underline strong support for delivering energy infrastructure at pace, helping the UK strengthen its resilience against global price shocks, volatile energy markets and supply disruptions, while accelerating the transition to clean power.

Although visual impact continues to feature prominently in planning debates, this new data shows it does not reflect the priorities of most people. Across communities and political divides, the focus is firmly on building a competitive, secure and future-ready energy system.

With energy projects being developed across the country, strong public support for investment, job protection and a stronger British industry is a welcome signal.

Charlotte Lee, HPA UK Chief Executive, commented:

“The findings demonstrate clear public support for the energy transition and the infrastructure needed to deliver it. At a time when energy transition policies are under increasing scrutiny, the results show people increasingly view low-carbon technologies, including heat pumps, as an economic opportunity to support jobs, strengthen UK competitiveness and crucially enhance our energy security.”

Further information on the polling data cited is available here.

hpauk.org.uk