Policy Research

U.S. Consumer attitudes and expectations about energy

John DeCicco, Ting Yan, Florian Keusch, Diego Horna Muñoz, Lisa Neidert

Summary

This article examines the public’s views on energy reliability, affordability, and environmental impact. Surveys revealed that consumers tended to be less tolerant of rising costs of gasoline than rising home energy costs. Consumers also value the affordability of energy more than its environmental impact. However, about three quarters of those surveyed believe that energy affects the environment at least a fair amount. Overall, there was some variation of views across different regions and income brackets.

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Policy Implications

The survey revealed that the public is concerned about protecting the environment but that the affordability of energy is more important. It suggests that consumers want energy that is both affordable and environmentally friendly. In the energy debate, policymakers must primarily stress the economic benefits new policies. However, they should also include the environmental benefits.