“It is encouraging that a majority of the population is positive towards offshore wind. It’s important to have public support when a new industry is being established on the Norwegian continental shelf,” says Roger Pedersen, Director of Offshore Wind at Offshore Norway.

The survey shows that 57 percent of respondents are either positive or somewhat positive about offshore wind energy. 33 percent are somewhat negative or very negative, while 10 percent are unsure.

More than half of the respondents also believe that the state should contribute with support to develop offshore wind as an industry on the Norwegian continental shelf.

“Offshore wind is necessary to meet the increased demand for energy over the next few decades. This is also emphasized by key players such as the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE), Statnett, and DNV. To achieve a major investment, the industry needs support in its early stages. That’s why it’s important that a majority of the population is not only positive towards offshore wind in general but also believes that the state should help support its development,” says Pedersen.

The Verian survey also shows that only one-third of respondents believe that offshore wind can lead to lower electricity prices.

“When the offshore wind farm in the Southern North Sea II is completed in 2031, electricity prices in the Southwest region of Norway could be reduced by around 10 øre per kilowatt-hour. Offshore wind can reduce electricity prices for both individuals and industries,” says Pedersen.