A recent poll conducted by 89 Degrees East for Farmers for Climate Action has uncovered strong support for clean energy projects among rural Australians living in renewable energy zones.
The survey, which polled 1,001 people across energy shift regions, found that 70 per cent of respondents support clean energy projects on farmland in their local community, while only 17 per cent oppose such initiatives.
The poll also revealed that 73 per cent of those with a connection to farming support clean energy projects on local farmland, and 71 per cent believe farmers should be allowed to host clean energy on their properties if they choose to do so.
Key benefits cited by respondents include bonus income for farmers, more reliable energy for local communities, and general economic benefits.
Despite the strong support, many rural Australians are unaware that they are part of a quiet majority favouring the energy transition.
Only 30 per cent of residents in Renewable Energy Zones recognise that farmers already earn substantial income from clean energy rent.
Natalie Collard, CEO of Farmers for Climate Action, noted that the results align with other recent surveys, including a Porter Novelli regional poll, a CSIRO survey of over 6,000 people, and Renewable Energy Zone polling by RE-Alliance.
“The data shows the quiet majority of rural Australia is clearly in favour of clean energy projects locally, although many don’t realise they’re part of the quiet majority,” Collard stated.
The survey also highlighted some concerns among respondents, including potential disruption to farming activities and impacts on nature.
To address these issues, 75 per cent of those polled believe clean energy operators should pay an energy bill bonus to local households and businesses.
Farmer focus groups conducted as part of the study revealed that clean energy rent is viewed as a good way to diversify farm income, and many farmers hope renewables can deliver more reliable energy to their communities.
However, farmers also expressed a lack of trust in developers and called for strong government regulation on decommissioning.
As Australia continues its transition to renewable energy, these findings suggest that rural communities are largely supportive of clean energy projects, provided they are implemented responsibly and with consideration for local concerns.
