How Americans Really Feel About Energy Costs and Renewables
Public opinion reveals a clear energy mandate: control costs, meet demand, and balance clean power with reliability.
Why It Matters
This data shows most voters aren’t choosing sides in an energy debate—they’re choosing affordability and reliability first. Rising electricity bills and growing demand are shaping public opinion more than ideology, and voters broadly support a balanced, all-of-the-above energy approach that includes renewables alongside dependable sources like natural gas and nuclear.
How To Use This Data
For policymakers, the messaging takeaway is clear: lead with lower costs, reliability, and practical solutions, not abstract climate goals, renewable mandates, or energy tradeoffs.
Click on the image below for the report with crosstabs or read the summary below.
Most Report Higher Energy Bills
A substantial majority (70.1%) reported an increase in household electricity bills over the past year, with 27.5% indicating a significant rise and 42.7% a slight rise.
Among those who say the country is headed in the wrong direction 74% say their electric rates have increased and those who see the country heading in the right direction only 63% say they have seen an increase.
Across all income levels 68% said their energy costs have risen.
Americans are Split on How to Meet Energy Needs
47% prioritize producing more electricity with new power plants and electrical infrastructure. This includes 60% of Republicans, 45% of independents, and 35% of Democrats.
41% prioritize using less electricity. This includes 29% of Republicans, 40% of independents, and 52% of Democrats.
Impact of Renewable Energy Regulations on Electricity Prices
42% believe renewable energy mandates raise electricity costs (18% a lot, 24% a little) while 27% believe they decrease their electric bill.
On a party line, 56% of GOP voters, 40% of Independents and 30% of Democrats say it increases their electric costs.
The group most likely to say it lowers their electric costs are Generation Z woman at 34%.
The Bottom Line
Rising electricity costs are reshaping public opinion. Voters support a balanced energy strategy that lowers bills, meets growing demand, and pairs clean energy with reliable power.