Now More Than Ever, Nuclear Energy Is an Asset for the Country According to the French Public (BVA Survey for Orano)

Regulatory News:

While the debates around nuclear energy have been impacted by numerous current events in recent years (war in Ukraine, energy crisis, inflation, announced investments in the sector), Orano once again set out to survey the French public and assess the changes in their perceptions of this energy.

The results of the survey conducted from April 25 to May 2, 2023, by the institute BVA supplement the findings of the first two editions conducted in 2019 and 2021 and elucidate recent changes in the opinions and knowledge of the French public regarding nuclear energy.

For Nicolas Maes, CEO of Orano: “The steady growth in the number of French people who support nuclear energy shows that awareness has increased among our fellow citizens, who better understand the advantages of this energy, especially with what is happening around the world. Their support has come full circle at a time when France is reaffirming its choice regarding nuclear energy. This support also gives the Group a new outlook.”

Among the key results:   For 57% of the French public (+7 points compared to 2021), nuclear energy is an asset for the country. France’s energy independence is considered the main asset of nuclear energy for 59% of people surveyed (+6 points compared to 2021). 51% of the French public (-7 points compared to 2021) still consider nuclear energy to contribute to climate change and the production of CO2. For 56% of the French public (+15 points compared to 2021), the nuclear sector creates jobs. 66% of the French public (+2 points compared to 2021) anticipate a “nuclear and renewable energies” mix in France’s future.

Nuclear sector, an ever-increasing asset for France

For 57% of the French public, nuclear energy is an asset for their country. This figure, representing a 7-point increase compared to 2021, is backed by assets that remain a constant in their opinion: France’s energy independence (59%), uninterrupted electricity generation (35%), and the low cost of electricity (32%). Similarly, the main objections of the French public to the nuclear sector remain the same compared to 2021: production of non-recyclable waste (53%), aging nuclear facilities (49%), and the risk of accidents (46%)