Nuclear Energy Acceptance in Poland: From Societal Attitudes to Effective Policy Strategies -- Network Modeling Approach

TL;DR

This study analyzes Polish societal attitudes towards nuclear and renewable energy using network modeling, highlighting political ideology and values as key factors influencing acceptance, and suggests tailored framing strategies for effective policy development.

Contribution

Introduces a novel network modeling approach to identify key societal factors affecting energy acceptance in Poland, emphasizing the importance of value-based framing strategies.

Findings

Political ideology is central to energy acceptance.

Environmental attitudes and risk perception significantly influence acceptance.

Tailored framing strategies can enhance policy effectiveness.

Abstract

Poland is currently undergoing substantial transformation in its energy sector, and gaining public support is pivotal for the success of its energy policies. We conducted a study with 338 Polish participants to investigate societal attitudes towards various energy sources, including nuclear energy and renewables. Applying a novel network approach, we identified a multitude of factors influencing energy acceptance. Political ideology is the central factor in shaping public acceptance, however we also found that environmental attitudes, risk perception, safety concerns, and economic variables play substantial roles. Considering the long-term commitment associated with nuclear energy and its role in Poland's energy transformation, our findings provide a foundation for improving energy policy in Poland. Our research underscores the importance of policies that resonate with the diverse values, beliefs, and preferences of the population. While the risk-risk trade-off and technology-focused strategies are effective to a degree, we advocate for a more comprehensive approach. The framing strategy, which tailors messages to distinct societal values, shows particular promise.