Public Views on the Importance and Expansion of Renewable Electricity Production over the Last 35 Years in Idaho, USA

Abstract

In 2022, Idaho stood fourth among U.S. states in renewable electricity share, with 74% generated from renewable sources like hydro, solar, wind, and geothermal. The dominant contributor has historically been hydropower. However, due to population growth and limited potential for new dam sites, reliance on solar and wind energy has increased. This paper aims to document the evolution of Idahoan public opinion regarding renewable energy's role in electricity production over 35 years. Public surveys were conducted every five years from 1987 to 2022, each involving at least 500 respondents. The surveys reveal strong public support for enhancing Idaho's renewable energy share. Over 75% of respondents expressed pride in the state's renewable electricity generation. Support for solar and wind energy has grown from 60% in 1987 to over 80% in 2022. Geographical preferences emerged, with south-western and south-central residents favoring solar, southeastern residents favoring wind, and northern residents divided between hydro, solar, and wind. The surveys disclose that Idahoans: (1) strongly support increased renewable electricity production, (2) endorse solar and wind energy as key contributors, and (3) desire to replace Idaho’s remaining non-renewable energy production with renewable sources within the next decade.