Switzerland is in the process of implementing a new energy law, which includes the phasing-out nuclear power and expansion of renewable energies and possibly natural gas power. To transition towards an accepted energy system, it is crucial to know, what type of electricity mix the public finds acceptable. To answer these questions, we present two studies. In the first study (n=317), we investigated whether different factors that are known to influence acceptance of technologies are also related to the choice of an intuitive electricity portfolio. In the second study (n=85), we assessed whether interactive information on the impacts resulting from an electricity mix (CO2-emissions, price, etc.) is associated with portfolio preference. Here, respondents constructed informed, more deliberative portfolios using a web-based interactive decision support system (DSS). For this latter study, we traced information processing by Mouselab.
We find similar results for intuitive and informed portfolio choices. Affect is the most relevant factor explaining portfolio choice: The more positive the feelings towards an energy technology are, the bigger its share is in a portfolio. Other variables, such as concern about climate change, seem to play a lesser role. In contrast, information provided on the impacts seems not to influence respondents’ choice of energy technologies. We conclude that providing information on CO2-emissions, price or land-use conflicts via a DSS do not seem to be related to what people choose as their preferred portfolio for the country ’ s future energy system. Interactive decision aids are appealing at the first glance, as they allow the public to engage with a complex subject. However, as we find that feelings towards an energy technology are more relevant in shaping the individuals ’ preferences of the energy system, we question the usefulness of providing information through decision aids to inform public perceptions of energy systems.