Broad Approval for Energy Transition Revealed in Saxony Survey

A recent survey by INSA-Consulere, conducted for the Climate Neutral Germany Initiative (CNGI), highlights strong support for the energy transition among Saxony's adult population. From July 1 to July 8, 2024, 1,000 residents aged 18 and above were polled on their views regarding the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

The results were clear: 69% of those surveyed believe there should be a cross-party agreement on how to carry out the energy transition in Saxony. Another 43% somewhat agreed with this sentiment, demonstrating broad consensus across political lines. While political party affiliation did influence the degree of support, backing for the transition was notable across all groups. The Green Party showed the highest level of support at 94%, followed by BSW (80%), CDU (78%), Die Linke (78%), and SPD (74%). Even among traditionally less supportive groups like FDP (63%) and AfD (57%), there was still significant backing.

However, confidence in the current government's ability to handle Saxony's energy needs over the next decade is lacking. Only 35% of respondents feel that the government has a concrete plan for securing future energy supplies, while a combined 45% remain sceptical. Notably, 14% are highly sceptical, and 31% are somewhat sceptical about the government’s preparedness. Nearly 20% of those polled were undecided.

When asked about who bears responsibility for achieving the goals of the Saxon Energy and Climate Programme, 35% pointed to the Saxon state government, with 27% naming the Saxony Parliament. The federal government was cited by 32% of respondents as the key player in driving the energy transition forward.

CNGI Calls for Action

CNGI Managing Director Carolin Friedemann interprets the survey results as a "clear mandate to the next Saxon state government." She emphasized the need for a "clear and non-partisan strategy" to ensure the successful implementation of the energy transition and secure the region's energy future.

Surprising Support for Wind Energy

A particularly striking finding from the survey concerns the acceptance of wind energy. Although 49% of respondents believed that their local communities were opposed to wind turbines, the actual level of support among those living near turbines was much higher, with 59% in favour. This indicates a significant gap between perceived and actual attitudes towards wind energy. Commenting on the results, Jörn-Heinrich Tobaben, managing director of the Central German Metropolitan Region, noted, "The results show there is acceptance for wind energy in Saxony’s population. It’s important to communicate this more strongly."

High Interest in Solar Energy

The survey also revealed that 30% of respondents would consider installing solar systems at home, provided adequate funding is available. This reflects a growing willingness among Saxons to participate privately in the energy transition. Comparatively, a 2023 survey by the German Solar Industry Federation found a 77% approval rate for solar systems, though this only applied to property owners. Additionally, 20% of Saxon respondents expressed interest in plug-in solar devices, and 22% would invest in insulating their roofs and facades if finances allowed. Another 17% showed interest in installing heat pumps.

Markus Schlimbach, chairperson of the DGB District Saxony, emphasized that "those who truly want the energy transition must ensure that households with small and medium incomes can afford the costs."

Powering the Future with ACE Battery

As the world shifts towards renewable energy, ensuring reliable energy storage is critical. ACE Battery provides cutting-edge battery solutions that empower households and industries to harness renewable energy efficiently. From solar storage to large-scale industrial applications, ACE Battery offers innovative, sustainable, and high-performance energy storage systems.

Conclusion

The survey results indicate widespread support for the energy transition in Saxony, along with an urgent call for clearer, more actionable plans from the government. The next Saxon state government faces a clear mandate: secure the energy future with a unified, non-partisan approach that takes into account the public’s willingness to embrace renewable energy, while ensuring that the costs are manageable for all households.