The Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP) aroused much local comment and involvement during its long development. Reporter Dan Stork says that a recent poll claims strong voter support for the plan…
A new poll shows that two-thirds of registered voters who live in and near California’s desert region like the Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP). The project covers 22 million acres with the goal of planning for renewable energy development, and conservation of land and wildlife. Two polling firms conducted the research, which was commissioned by the Pew Charitable Trusts. Pollster Lori Weigel, of Public Opinion Strategies, which is considered a Republican company, says backing for the desert plan was strong in every county involved, and even stronger among those who are just learning about the plan. David Metz, of the Democratic research company F-M-3, said, “We have three out of five conservative Republicans and more than four out of five liberal Democrats who are telling us that they are supportive of the DRECP, and all ranges of independent and centrist voters in between. So, this is one of those rare issues that seems to bring people together across party lines, as opposed to dividing them.” The survey shows preference for wind and solar projects on already disturbed land, and opposition to mining on land within the project area.
SURVEY SHOW STRONG SUPPORT FOR DRECP
