Survey Shows Strong Support for Green Electricity
Green Newton recently conducted a public, zip-code based, random survey to determine the willingness of Newton residents to pay more for additional renewable energy, and if so how much more.
In fall of 2017 a dozen volunteers stood at locations throughout the city: supermarkets, delicatessens, drugstores, Dunkin Donuts, etc., representing all of Newton's thirteen villages.
380 people were polled (95% statistically accurate)
In keeping with a recent WBUR poll which had much the same results, the Green Newton survey found:
Of those polled, 87% would pay extra for green energy, 13% would not pay extra.
77% of respondents that are willing to pay, are willing to pay for 50-100% ‘green’ electricity.
42% are willing to opt UP to the 100% green option
The largest impact, with a minimal price increase that has wide support, is about 50% renewable, amounting to $4-12 for most households depending upon their monthly bill. (Brookline currently has a contract at 38% total aggregated renewable electricity, below what this survey shows Newton residents would support.)
The survey was analyzed by Michael Gevelber and Max Davidowitz, Boston University; Halina Brown, Clark University, Newton Energy Commission
Data was collected 9/16/17 – 11/18/17
The survey was designed by Cory Alperstein, Laya Steinberg, Michael Gevelber, Halina Brown and others, with expert consultation.
The survey implementation was led by Cory Alperstein, Claudine Ellyin and Green Newton volunteers.
