Sustainable investment ‘key to creating a greener, better future’

• Survey finds public sees sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy as vital for
  future-proofing UK society and economy
• Only one in eight people are optimistic about the pace of change to combat the climate crisis

More than three quarters of Britons agree investment in a more sustainable Britain is key to creating a better future for the next generation, a poll has found.

E.ON’s nationwide survey of 1,000 people⁽¹⁾ reveals a strong desire for more renewable energy projects, with nearly 7 in 10 (68%) stating that investment in greener solutions such as battery storage and heat networks, should be a national priority.

82% of people surveyed also emphasised the importance of equipping the next generation with ‘green collar’ jobs and skills to ensure the UK’s future success.

Investment in local green infrastructure, such as sustainable transport options and energy-efficient housing, was also seen as critical, with 72% of people emphasising the need for better urban planning to support growing populations while reducing environmental impacts.

Commenting on the research, Vijay Tank, Chief Operating Officer at E.ON Energy Infrastructure Solutions, said: “There’s a huge public appetite for a more sustainable future – and the challenge now is turning this ambition for investment in innovation into action. At E.ON, we’re not only helping people and businesses to embrace home-grown, renewable energy but we have the scale to work with whole communities to develop the infrastructure that makes sustainability practical and accessible for everyone.

"We’re proud to partner with councils, businesses, and communities to deliver the transformation needed in housing, transport, and energy. By working together, we can create opportunities for everyone, all while driving the energy transition to benefit both people and the planet.”

The survey highlighted regional differences in priorities:

• Urban residents favoured renewable energy solutions (74%) and cleaner, more efficient public transport (67%) to tackle air pollution and congestion;
• Suburban areas placed higher emphasis on energy-efficient housing (63%) and improved green spaces (58%); and
• Rural communities highlighted the need for better access to EV charging infrastructure (62%) and renewable energy solutions (60%).

Barriers to progress

While public sentiment strongly supports sustainable investment, concerns remain about the perceived costs and pace of change. More than half (52%) of respondents believe the government and private sector need to accelerate their efforts to meet the UK’s net zero targets. Cost was cited as a key barrier for personal investments, with 57% of people worried that green initiatives are not affordable or accessible for the average household.

While the majority of people (60%) are taking steps to live more sustainably, only 15% feel optimistic that enough global action is being taken to combat climate change. The findings underscore the urgency of collective action to meet net-zero targets and build a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

As a playmaker in the energy transition, E.ON is tackling the net zero challenges head-on, investing in sustainable energy projects, developing EV networks and creating greener communities through innovative infrastructure.

Its groundbreaking 15-year strategic energy partnership with Coventry City Council is a prime example of the solutions highlighted in the survey as being critical for sustainable progress. This collaboration demonstrates how public-private partnerships can transform cities into greener, more resilient communities – by developing a range of opportunities ranging from energy efficiency and renewable energy generation to cleaner transport options and skills initiatives across the city.

E.ON’s Net Zero Training Academy in the West Midlands is one such example of E.ON delivering change for the next generation – equipping technicians and engineers of the future with skills to deliver cleaner energy solutions such as solar, batteries and heat pumps, the academy is a vital part of building the UK’s green economy.