University Poll Finds That 71 Percent of Virginians Approve of Nuclear
An independent poll released by Quinnipiac University has found that most Virginians remain in favor of nuclear energy use to meet their state’s electricity needs, roughly two months after a severe hurricane centered nearby the state’s North Anna nuclear facility. The newly released poll found that 71 percent of Virginia voters approve of using nuclear power to produce electricity, and 60 percent support the construction of new nuclear facilities within the state. In addition, the study found that 6 in 10 Virginia voters said that the earthquake either did not affect their views or lowered their concerns on the safety of the North Anna nuclear facility.
These numbers are consistent with other findings evaluating local support of nuclear energy, as well as the nuclear-friendly approach taken by local Virginians towards the hurricane in August. A national survey taken in June found that 80 percent of Americans living near nuclear energy facilities support nuclear power and recent census data has found a 17 percent increase in populations near U.S. nuclear reactors. Nuclear currently accounts for just over 36% of electricity generated in the state.
