UK Public Supports Greater Nuclear Capability But Needs More Information: IBM Survey

Published: 09-Feb-2010

Consumer acceptance of nuclear power as a viable alternative energy source is on the increase, according to a recent survey by IBM into consumer attitudes to nuclear power. Two thirds of consumers polled in the survey supported a greater nuclear capability if it meant that the risk of losing energy supplies was greatly reduced.

However, the same consumers polled are currently unwilling to absorb the extra cost incurred by the development of the plants – only one in five respondents expressed a willingness to pay more, even in order to reduce carbon emissions.

The independent survey, carried out during November 2009, polled 2000 consumers in the UK following the publication of the UK Government’s draft National Policy Statement for Energy, which is part of its plan to facilitate a new nuclear build program in the UK.

While there is general acceptance of nuclear power as an alternative power source, nearly 75% of consumers polled believed that the case for new nuclear power hasn’t been delivered with any great clarity despite publication of the National Policy Statement for Energy. Those in the youngest group, aged 18-24 years old, are least convinced that there is a requirement for new nuclear power stations given other renewable sources of energy such as wind, wave and solar.

Steve Hornsby, nuclear power lead at IBM Global Business Services UK & Ireland, said: “The IBM survey demonstrates that the UK public is open to the idea of nuclear power as an alternative power source. However, there is still a lack of communication as to the needs for and the implications of a new-build programme. Consumer perceptions are not yet aligned with the industry’s plans.”

“In the 20 years since the last significant new nuclear build, the world has become much more instrumented, interconnected and intelligent. The application of advanced technology and business processes can enable the industry to become smarter. In an era where the UK industry will be fighting for resources, this capability is key if the UK is to be at the centre of a global smarter energy revolution.”

The survey findings suggest that attitudes to nuclear have changed over the years as around half of the consumers polled believe that nuclear power is a safe form of energy and 65% see it as inevitable that the UK will rely more on nuclear power in the future.

The consumers surveyed were keen to take action on curbing carbon emissions – 33% felt it is essential, while over 70% replied positively to this point. Over a third of Britons polled feel it’s very important to make significant reductions in carbon (38%) with over 77% replying positively. Only one third of the public surveyed feel any drawbacks they see outweigh the UK employment opportunities created by a build programme.

IBM considers it important that the UK takes this opportunity to work smarter, improving the energy system making it more sustainable through effective smarter management.

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