In a recent GOOD article, it was noted that a remarkable 83% of Americans want to see legislative support for clean energy projects according to a current Gallup poll; solar and wind energy specifically received greatest mention. This data is especially eye-opening since this percentage tops the list of all other current major American policy agendas, including health care, taxes and the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.

Of course, not all the energy-related responses supported 100% clean, renewable energy — 65% favored an “energy bill that expands drilling and exploration for oil and gas.” A significant percentage of respondents also showed support for both clean energy incentives and expanded fossil fuel extraction, illustrating that climate change, or general environmental concerns, are not as high a priority as energy independence. That said, 83% is a notable level of popular support.  Now, will Congress actually listen to the voice of the American people?  It will be interesting to watch this issue further develop and unfold over the coming months.