US Sees Highest-Ever Support for Nuclear Energy Use
Record Levels of Support Show Shift in Public Opinion on Nuclear Energy in the USA
Editorial Team (ET)May 7, 2025
Public support for nuclear energy in the United States has surged to an unprecedented level, marking a significant shift in public opinion over the past several decades. According to a recent survey conducted by Bisconti Research Inc., more than three-quarters of Americans now favor the use of nuclear energy. This change highlights a dramatic evolution in attitudes toward this controversial energy source.
In the early 1980s, American views on nuclear energy were sharply divided. The memory of nuclear accidents and the unresolved issue of radioactive waste loomed large, fostering widespread skepticism. However, the narrative has shifted considerably due to advancements in nuclear technology, enhanced safety measures, and the pressing need for cleaner energy alternatives.
The National Nuclear Energy Public Opinion Survey, carried out from April 30 to May 2, polled 1,000 nationally representative US adults. The survey, with a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points, was conducted by Bisconti Research in partnership with the Quest Mindshare Online Panel. This poll has been a staple in gauging public sentiment on nuclear energy since 1983.
The survey's findings reveal that 77% of respondents are either strongly or somewhat in favor of nuclear energy as a means of electricity generation in the USA. This level of support has remained stable and robust for the past four years, indicating a growing acceptance of nuclear power as a viable energy solution.
One of the most notable findings is the strong support for renewing the licenses of nuclear power plants that continue to meet federal safety standards. An impressive 88% of those surveyed agree that these licenses should be renewed, viewing the process similarly to renewing a driver's license – if the plant can operate safely, its license should be extended.
Support for constructing new nuclear reactors has also risen, particularly since 2021. The latest poll shows that 71% of respondents are in favor of building new reactors, while 29% are opposed. This increasing support underscores a broader recognition of nuclear energy's role in addressing future energy needs.
Interestingly, the survey also highlights a distinction between those who strongly support nuclear energy and those with moderate opinions. Those strongly in favor outnumber their strongly opposed counterparts by a ratio of 5 to 1. However, a significant portion of the population remains moderate in their views, either somewhat supporting or somewhat opposing nuclear energy. These individuals, often referred to as "fence-sitters," represent a crucial demographic that could be swayed by further information and engagement.
The survey assessed the public's knowledge about nuclear energy through a series of ten questions. The results indicate that many respondents have a limited understanding of nuclear energy, with two-thirds of the sample falling into the low or somewhat low knowledge categories. Only 7% of respondents demonstrated high knowledge. Notably, the data shows a strong correlation between knowledge and support: the more people know about nuclear energy, the more likely they are to support it.
Safety remains a paramount concern for the public when it comes to nuclear energy. The consistent adherence to federal safety standards has played a crucial role in building trust. The survey indicates that the public views the renewal of nuclear plant licenses similarly to renewing a driver's license, reinforcing the idea that safety compliance is essential for continued operation.
Comparing support for nuclear energy with other energy sources, nuclear stands out for its reliability and low environmental impact. The global perspective also shows varying levels of support, with some countries embracing nuclear energy more readily than others. In the US, the trend is toward increased acceptance and support, driven by the need for sustainable energy solutions.
The findings of this poll have significant implications for energy policy and the nuclear industry. Policymakers can leverage the growing public support to push for favorable regulations and investments in nuclear energy. The industry can also use this data to strategize future developments, focusing on expanding nuclear capacity and addressing public concerns.
Despite the high level of support, there are still challenges and concerns that need to be addressed. Public apprehension about nuclear accidents and waste management remains. Educating the public and enhancing transparency about safety measures and technological advancements are key strategies to mitigate these concerns.
Looking ahead, the future of nuclear energy in the US appears promising. Continued advancements in technology and safety, along with increasing public support, suggest a positive trajectory. The industry and policymakers must continue to engage with the public, providing accurate information and addressing concerns to maintain and grow this support.
The record-high support for nuclear energy in the US, as shown by the latest Bisconti Research Inc. survey, marks a significant milestone. With 77% of the public in favor, and strong support for license renewals and new reactor construction, the future of nuclear energy looks bright. The challenge now lies in maintaining this momentum, addressing concerns, and ensuring that the benefits of nuclear energy are well-communicated and understood.
Attitudes on the use of nuclear energy as one of the ways to provide electricity in the USA, 1983-2024 (Image: Bisconti)
