Public Opinion Foundations of the Clean Energy Transition

Public attitudes are central to the clean energy transition. There is, however, theoretical ambiguity about how mass publics influence policy and the sources of their policy preferences. This has consequences for understanding decarbonization trajectories and the conditions that enable political reforms. Our review uses the recent turn to green industrial policy to clarify the origins and influence of public opinion in the clean energy transition. The political logic of green industrial policy leverages policy benefits to create allies, a strategy that will hinge on whether the public recognizes these gains and rewards politicians. The conclusion identifies new avenues for public opinion research prompted by the shifting climate policy strategies.