Citizens’ views on various forms of energy and their contribution to the environment

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In recent years, a shift has been observed in several countries towards the exploitation of RES for socio-economic and environmental purposes. Wind energy is a form of renewable energy resources (RES) which offers many advantages, particularly for countries such as Greece, which has a very promising wind potential. In addition, studies of citizens’ views on the development of wind energy in Greece have been gaining particular attention due to recent decisions regarding the energy policy of Greece. More specifically, since August 2012, the examination of new applications for photovoltaic parks has been suspended, and only applications for wind parks are now being reviewed.The present research was conducted on the island of Andros, where a wind park has been in operation since 1992, with a total annual capacity of 4740MW. The data collection was carried out in 2010 using a structured questionnaire, and involved the citizens as electrical energy consumers. In particular, their views were studied regarding their satisfaction with the quality and availability of electricity on the island, and the installation of wind turbines. They were then asked to evaluate how environmentally–friendly various forms of energy are, as well as the effects from the use of RES.The research results indicate that the citizens are positively disposed towards the installation of wind parks in their area, particularly in the northern part of the island, where a wind park is already installed. After evaluating the various forms of energy, they consider solar, wind and hydroelectric energy to be the most environmentally-friendly energy forms. The use of renewable energy sources will have an impact in reducing carbon dioxide emissions, on the energy supply, lower the relevant costs and contribute to local development with through the creation of new employment opportunities.