Support for energy transition weakens in Germany, survey finds

Wednesday 11 February 2026 - 07:20

By: Sahili Aya

Support for energy transition weakens in Germany, survey finds

Public backing for Germany’s energy transition and climate action has declined significantly, according to a newly released opinion survey conducted by the Allensbach Institute.

The representative poll, commissioned by the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt, indicates a steady drop in the number of Germans who describe themselves as highly concerned about the consequences of climate change. While concern rose markedly between 2010 and 2019 — climbing from 29% to 51% — and remained elevated through 2022, it has since decreased to 36%, and most recently to 33%.

Researchers attribute this shift largely to the cumulative effect of multiple crises, including economic strain, the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader geopolitical and social uncertainty. According to the institute, these pressures appear to have reshaped public priorities and perceptions.

The survey was based on 1,029 face-to-face interviews conducted between November 22 and December 4, 2025, among individuals aged 16 and older across Germany.

When asked about the country’s policy direction — particularly the nuclear phase-out and accelerated expansion of renewable energy — 43% of respondents said they believe Germany is on the right track. Meanwhile, 37% expressed the view that the strategy is misguided.

Skepticism toward the energy transition appears more pronounced in eastern Germany, among lower-income households and among supporters of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) as well as the liberal Free Democratic Party (FDP).

Supporters of the transition are also becoming more cautious. The share of those who believe the government is implementing the right measures fell sharply within a year, from 52% to 33%.

Overall, 37% of respondents said they see the energy transition primarily as a risk, compared with 28% who consider it mainly an opportunity.

In addition, roughly two-thirds of participants expect the transformation of the energy system to significantly reshape Germany’s landscape, particularly through the construction of wind turbines and expanded power grid infrastructure.

The findings highlight the growing complexity of Germany’s climate debate as policymakers balance environmental goals with economic and social concerns.