Public Opinion About Nuclear Energy in the Context of Local Public Hearings About the Expansion of the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station, South Carolina, 2008-2009

This study looked at public opinion surrounding nuclear energy in the lead up to a state-level decision about whether to accept the expansion of the Virgil C. Summer nuclear plant in Jenkinsville, SC. In the survey, respondents were asked about their feelings on nuclear power in South Carolina and the decision-makers who may be involved in the public hearing process, including perceptions of the risks and benefits of nuclear power, effectiveness and fairness of public hearings, and decision-makers' respect for the public, trustworthiness and knowledge about nuclear power. Opinions were collected on energy related issues, such as the safety of nuclear power, climate change, energy independence, energy costs, and expanding a nuclear power plant in the Midlands of South Carolina. Additionally, demographic and other information collected included race, education, age, sex, party identification, and respondents' attention to local news coverage in newspapers and television.