Sun, wind or water? Public support for large-scale renewable energy development in Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACT Public acceptance is one important aspect of broader social acceptability of renewable energy. Using a national, representative survey dataset of Canadian citizens (n = 1407), we examine public support for three infrastructure-scale renewables: large hydropower, wind farms, and solar farms. Few studies compare acceptance of multiple technologies or acceptance across sub-national regions. Due to differing levels of historical and current development of energy technologies, the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec provide a unique case for comparison. At the national level, results demonstrate strong support and high levels of familiarity for these renewable technologies, but limited belief they will lower greenhouse gas emissions. Lower levels of support for wind and hydro technologies were seen in provinces that recently experienced development. Using regression analysis, we found support for each of the technologies was influenced by a different set of factors. Important influencing factors included environmental and climate concern, familiarity with the technology, personal values, political affiliation, gender, age and education.