A new public opinion poll, commissioned by UK Onshore Oil and Gas (UKOOG), reveals that natural gas production from shale enjoys widespread backing across the country, with more than three times as many supporting production than opposing.
The Populus survey of 4,000 adults, also finds overwhelming support for reducing Britain’s reliance on gas imports from overseas, which are rising rapidly as North Sea production declines.
This survey is one of the largest polls on the issue. The key findings of the research include:
Commenting on the findings, Ken Cronin, Chief Executive of UKOOG , said, “This survey shows that most people across the country think that shale gas should be developed. More than four out of five of us heat our homes with gas, and Britain’s shale resource gives us the opportunity to become less dependent on foreign energy supplies, create tens of thousands of jobs and support our manufacturing industries.”
“Shale gas and renewables are complementary, and our survey confirms that the public would like to see a balanced mix that includes both sources of energy. Whilst these results are positive, our industry needs to continue to do all it can to listen to and engage with the views of local communities,” says Cronin.
Press Release, August 12, 2014; Image: UKOOG