Council leaders risk losing people’s support if they cosy up to the fossil fuel industry

Reform-controlled Lincolnshire County Council has received significant attention in the renewable energy race since last May’s local elections. The Council has planned to scrap a target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Meanwhile, it is set to host the UK’s largest solar farm after approval from the Government last year. 

The Tilbridge Solar project has the potential to power 300,000 homes, benefitting from the Mayoral Renewables Fund to provide solar and batteries on public buildings. Jenkyns has been a fierce critic of net zero, opposing the installation of a battery storage system and publicly declaring support for fracking.

But what do British people think and feel about the fossil fuel industry?

There’s much evidence to suggest that political leaders who seek to cosy up to this industry will lose the trust of the public. 74% of people see climate change as important, and research from our latest Britain Talks Climate & Nature research shows that 57% of people see politicians who take on polluting businesses and industries as a sign of a strong leader.

Compelling findings also suggest that political parties will lose support if they align themselves to the fossil fuel industry. At Climate Outreach we have heard time and time again in focus groups that trust in politicians and our political system is at rock bottom. 

A recent study from Persuasion UK shows that exposing Reform’s financial links to the industry was the most likely to turn voters off. DeSmog has found that the Party received £2.3 million between 2019 and 2024 from climate deniers and fossil fuel companies – that’s 92% of its donations in that period. This information was more likely to lead voters to say they would stop supporting Reform; more so than its anti-immigration policies or support for NHS privatisation.

Leaders of Local Government who pledge support for fossil fuels and squander opportunities presented by renewables are clearly out of step with what British people want. 

Take a look at Britain Talks Climate & Nature for insights on how people feel about energy and trust & leadership – and how to frame your story to rebuild trust and support a sustainable future.