Albertans Thirst for Renewable and Clean Energy

78 per cent prefer subsidies for renewable energy

Edmonton — A recent poll showing that Albertans overwhelmingly prefer subsidies for renewable and clean energy sends a message to the Stelmach government that its upcoming budget should include plans to develop a green economy for Alberta.

The poll was commissioned by the Alberta Council for Environmental Education (ACEE) and conducted by the polling firm Ipsos Reid shows that when asked to choose, Albertans overwhelmingly prefer subsidies for renewable and clean energy in the future compared to oil and gas. The poll shows that 78 per cent of Albertans prefer subsidies for renewable and clean energy options in the future while only 11 per cent prefer subsidies for oil and gas development.

"This poll shows that Albertans see the potential a green economy holds for Alberta, and they want the government to get involved and lead us there," said Gil McGowan, President of the Alberta Federation of Labour. "Albertans know that we can have a strong economy that doesn't sacrifice our environment."