FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: January 22, 2025 From: Energy Right Contact: Skyler Zunk, skyler@energyrightus.org Richmond, Virginia – A new statewide poll conducted from January 15-17 reveals strong support among Virginians for clean energy initiatives, with 72% of likely voters favoring solar energy development. Governor Youngkin’s popularity reaches new heights in this survey, with a 61% approval rating and even higher marks for his all-of-the-above approach to energy development. The results highlight a growing consensus that clean energy solutions and leadership are vital for the Commonwealth’s economic and environmental future. The survey of 896 likely voters provides valuable insight into public sentiment regarding various aspects of clean energy, including solar and other energy sources, property rights, local authority, and related policy measures. “Virginia is experiencing increasing energy demand like never before, which makes it vitally important that we understand the views of Virginians on how we meet this moment,” said Blake Cox, Energy Right’s co-founder and COO. “By embracing innovative technologies, like solar, battery storage, SMR’s, and more, we can drive job creation, generate tax revenue for our communities, and be an energy powerhouse here in the Commonwealth.” Energy Right routinely engages across over 70 Virginia counties in pursuit of its mission. While the data show it is increasingly difficult for clean energy investments to receive local approval, the support for these projects remains high on a local, regional, and statewide basis. “The vast majority of new energy generation in Virginia is coming from solar projects, which are helping to meet our near term demands while keeping downward pressure on costs,” remarked Skyler Zunk, Energy Right’s CEO. “Virginians are sending a clear and powerful message: they want to see clean energy solutions take center stage in Governor Youngkin’s all-of-the-above approach. There is no doubt in my mind that the Governor’s balanced and thoughtful approach to energy has resonated well across the Commonwealth.” A stable, secure, and cost effective energy portfolio remains key to Virginia’s bright future. Virginia can and should achieve energy independence and energy dominance with an all-of-the-above strategy that includes popular, cost effective sources like solar energy. This poll was conducted in collaboration with Co/efficient, a leading national polling firm. The results will be analyzed and used to shape Energy Right’s advocacy efforts, education programs, and outreach initiatives aimed at fostering a broader understanding and acceptance of clean energy solutions in the Commonwealth. Energy Right will highlight detailed findings of the public opinion poll in the coming weeks, providing policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public with valuable insights into public attitudes towards clean energy development in Virginia. Key Energy Takeaways: Virginians Favor Solar Energy as a Key Priority and Support Property Rights The poll reveals strong support among Virginians for expanding solar energy production, with many prioritizing it over other clean energy initiatives. Key findings include: –60% of voters want a greater emphasis on producing energy from solar power in their state –60% of voters support solar energy developments to meet our current increasing energy demands -61% of voters support solar projects that can generate millions of dollars in tax revenue benefitting their communities Additionally, the poll highlights widespread support for landowner rights in the context of solar development. When asked whether local governments should be able to limit landowners’ property rights by placing bans on solar development, 63% of voters said no, opposing such restrictions on property rights. These findings underscore the strong preference among Virginians for solar energy and private property rights to be upheld. Grid Stability and Energy Independence Our recent poll included a question asking Virginians about their support for President Trump’s “America First” energy plan, which focuses on increasing U.S. energy generation and reducing reliance on foreign energy sources. The results underscore the importance of energy security to voters across the Commonwealth: -58% of voters view energy security as “very important,” while an additional 27% consider it “somewhat important” -62% of respondents support clean energy innovations that support grid stability and reliability -65% of Virginia voters favor an “all-of-the-above” approach to increasing energy production to meet demand and achieve energy independence These findings highlight strong support for a balanced energy strategy that prioritizes grid security, clean energy innovation, and a commitment to meeting the energy needs of today and tomorrow. Support for Youngkin at All-Time High Support for Governor Youngkin comes with an overwhelming majority. When asked “When thinking about the issues that impact how you vote, how much of an impact do energy-related issues, such as the cost of energy or U.S. energy independence, have in determining your vote?” 76% of voters claimed it had a medium to large impact on their vote while 17% cited a small impact on their vote. –61% of voters support Governor Youngkin’s job performance –55% of Virginians are more likely to support an elected official who encourages the development of clean energy technologies –76% of Virginia voters say energy-related issues impact the way they vote These results highlight that energy issues are top of mind for Virginia voters and that they support Governor Youngkin’s continued leadership when it comes to energy development in their state. About Energy Right Energy Right serves as a trusted conservative voice and resource for informed decision-making on responsible clean energy development that drives local economic growth and prosperity. Committed to driving local economic growth and prosperity, Energy Right champions an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy that will ensure America’s energy independence. See complete results and RSVP to tonight’s legislative reception here: https://energyrightus.org/legislative-reception/ | 
