We have looked into the differences between the U.S. and Canada’s acceptance of nuclear power and each nation’s approach to its energy future. Recent data shows just how deep the divide is between our neighbors to the north. On March 21, 2016, Gallup published a new poll showing for the first time, a majority of Americans oppose the use of nuclear power.
In contrast, David Herle, a public affairs consultant with the Gandalf Group, presented data at the recent Canadian Nuclear Association Conference regarding the Canadian public’s attitudes toward nuclear power.
View his presentation below:
Herle found that 33% of Canadians “strongly support” nuclear power and 40% “somewhat support” it. He concluded that in 25 years of studying data regarding the acceptability of nuclear power in Canada, the current level of acceptance is a “high watermark”. Herle noted that the people “somewhat supporting” have a general acceptance, but need constant convincing and reassurance that nuclear power is safe. In order to maintain the public’s high acceptance level, Herle recommended the following:
- Communicating the independence and effectiveness of the regulator (in Canada, the CNSC) as a steward of the public’s interest;
- Companies and governments supporting nuclear power need to engender trust;
- The preference of nuclear as a “clean” energy source versus fossil fuels should be trumpeted, though nuclear companies would be wise to promote renewables with nuclear as sources for the future.
It’s likely that Canadian’s attitudes toward nuclear power are more positive because of the wide public acceptance of the impact of carbon-based fuels (except, of course in the tar sands region). It’s also likely that American attitudes toward nuclear power are being influenced by the current cheap oil and gas prices. The nuclear industry in the U.S. has not been nearly as effective as Canada in convincing the public of the long-term benefits of nuclear power, which of course impacts public views and perceptions of its place in the U.S.’ energy future and its policies.
