More than half of Poles have no fear of nuclear technology
According to the IBRiS study commissioned by PKN Orlen, 57% of respondents describe modern nuclear technologies as safe. Additionally, about 50% of respondents stated that they would not be afraid if Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) were built in their town. These findings suggest a significant level of public trust in modern nuclear technologies and a willingness to accept the construction of SMRs in local communities.
The IBRiS study clearly indicates that energy security is a top priority for Poles, with 58% of respondents viewing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a source of stable energy supplies. Additionally, nearly the same number of respondents believe that Poland should initiate its energy transformation with this technology.
Moreover, 56% of Poles would support the construction of an SMR nearby if it resulted in reduced energy bills. Furthermore, when asked if they would support such investments if the development of SMRs in Poland allowed for complete independence from the import of Russian raw materials, 63.5% of respondents answered affirmatively.
The study also touched upon additional benefits, with 40% of respondents expressing confidence that the SMR construction program would contribute to the creation of new jobs. These findings suggest strong public support for SMRs as a viable solution for Poland’s energy needs.
Orlen is speeding up work
Daniel Obajtek, President of the Management Board of PKN ORLEN, has summarized the research findings, stating that small modular reactors (SMRs) represent a stable, zero-emission, and safe energy source, essential for facilitating Poland’s energy transformation. The survey results validate that the majority of Poles support SMR technology.
Obajtek announced that the first small nuclear reactor in Poland is slated to be operational by 2030, and efforts will be intensified to achieve this goal.
The survey, conducted from April 28 to August 20, 2005, utilized the CAPI method and gathered responses from a nationwide sample of 1,124 people, with 200 respondents from each of the following locations: Włocławek, Ostrołęka, Stawy Manowskie (near Oświęcim), Kraków, Dąbrowa Górnicza, Warsaw, and Stalowa Wola-Tarnobrzeg.
Source: orlen.pl