Survey: consumer knowledge on energy questions is muddled

In survey results released Oct. 28, Shelton Group reveals that consumers are more muddled about basic energy questions than ever, with deep pockets of ignorance interspersed with growing awareness of how to conserve energy.

The bad news:

Fewer consumers in 2008 than in 2007 accurately responded when asked, “How is most electricity generated nationally?” with 30 percent citing “burning coal,” as opposed to 33 percent in 2007. ... One third erroneously think cars and trucks are the No. 1 cause of global warming, while only 4 percent cite the actual primary culprit of greenhouse emissions: coal-fired electric plants.

And the good:

In 2005, only 20 percent of consumers could name one source of renewable energy unaided. In 2007, 48 percent could, and in 2008, accurate responses rose to 59 percent. ... When it comes to saving energy dollars in the home, consumers were relatively accurate about the top ways that most homes can curb energy use.

Shelton Group is an ad agency entirely focused on energy efficiency and sustainability. Its Energy Pulse study has been conducted since 2005.