A poll by Mainstreet Research has found Ontario residents are split in how they feel about wind power.
43% say have a positive opinion, and an equal 43% have a negative opinion.
Spokesman Quito Maggi says a closer look shows that people have strong negative opinions
"28% of Ontarians have a 'very negative' opinion with another 15% having a 'somewhat negative opinion, compared to the 18% of Ontarians who have a 'very positive' opinion and 25% who have a 'somewhat positive' opinion," said Quito Maggi, President of Mainstreet Research. "61% of Ontarians believe that wind power has led to an increase in their hydro bills and 59% expect their hydro bill will go up in the next 12 months."
"Ontario's energy plans have come under scrutiny the last few months as the auditor general has looked at the impact of sourcing green energy on hydro bills and the provincial treasury. On top of that there is ongoing litigation between the province and former energy producers. These headlines are very likely feeding into the negative perception of wind power in Ontario. In many communities that were directly affected by wind farms there were political consequences for the provincial liberals, we'll be watching to see if this becomes a greater albatross in the next provincial campaign," finished Maggi.
Just over 2,500 people were surveyed.
