• Europeans neither trust Trump nor Putin, nor their vows regarding energy supplies.
• The U.S. is still seen as relatively more trustworthy than Russia.
• Many support homegrown renewable energy production.

A recent poll confirms that most Europeans support investments in domestic renewable energy as opposed to hinging on fossil fuel imports from the U.S. and Russia.

According to data from Opinium, a research agency, there is growing support for clean, affordable, and reliable energy sources that reduce reliance on foreign governments. The poll covered responses from people in Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, and the UK.

77% of respondents from these countries extend their support for homegrown renewables, and about half strongly agree with the cause. For instance, in Germany, which recorded mixed responses, 70% still prefer renewables. The trend shows that many people still believe in climate action and have not lost faith in it.

Europeans do not trust top foreign fossil fuel suppliers, neither Trump nor Putin, says the poll. As expected, 83% do not believe Putin will commit to a steady energy supply for the EU nations, while unexpectedly, 19% trust that Trump can fulfil Europe's energy needs.

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Overall, 57% distrust the U.S. as an energy supplier; however, it is still seen as relatively more trustworthy than Russia. Despite this, nearly half of the respondents prefer neither country for energy imports.

Among the nations, Poland showed the highest level of distrust towards Russia, likely due to Russian meddling in Poland's politics and internal affairs.

The findings come against the backdrop of the EU releasing its plans to phase out Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027. At the same time, there are worries that the EU would lean more towards American liquefied natural gas (LNG) instead.

Environmental groups, including Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe, responded by saying that this will not resolve the underlying issues. They opine that fossil fuel imports from either the U.S. or Russia will only expose Europe to price shocks, political risks, and climate damage.

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The Secure Energy Project, which commissioned this poll, along with other climate advocates, advises Europe to increase investments in renewable energy within its domestic markets and reduce energy use, arguing that this approach is more secure and sustainable in the long run.

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Source: euro news