Belief in the possibility of utilising alternative energy continues to be strong in all circumstances. A significant number of people (41%) consider pollution-free and inexhaustible solar energy to be a realistic solution in the near future, but an almost equal number (37%) expect that this technology will not be ready for a long time. The time series of these assessments is harmonious. Optimism regarding the possibility of using solar power increased with fairly steady, albeit short, steps for a long period. At the turn of the millennium, this trend stopped. The latest result confirms the results of the previous measurements, which referred to the fact that attitudes have started to become more sceptical again [Figure 21.].

Three out of four (74%) believe that wind and solar power could be taken into extensive use in Finland fairly soon, if there was willingness to invest in the research and development work on these technologies. Only a few people (10%) deny the truthfulness of this matter. An alternatively minded, but extremely technological, belief gained strength steadily over a period of several years until 1998, after which the trend broke and opinions started to become more cautious again. The most recent result indicates the end of this reclining period. Optimism is now observably greater than in the previous measurement [Figure 22.].

Attitudes towards wind power were tested with two separate questions in addition to asking about the desired extent for use of this energy form (cf. Chapter 1.). Referring to this energy form's negative effects on the landscape does not alter the sympathies of the general public. Only about one in six (18%) agree with the opinion that an increase in the use of wind power would result in considerable environmental harm, with wind farms spoiling the scenery in large areas. The development of attitudes indicating an emerging increase in criticism - earlier results referred to possible problems to be seen over time in wind power as well - has not continued any more. Few people are likely to have personal experiences of the aesthetic nature of wind farms [Figure 23.].

The question on the willingness to purchase electricity generated by wind power does not raise much interest, at least if the clean wind electricity is more expensive than ordinary electricity. More than one in four (29%) would be willing for this kind of trade, but almost one in two (46%) would not. The figures are almost as weak as in the previous measurement, in which the potential willingness to purchase was lower than in any other measurement. (This question has been included in the study since 1997; no figure). The price development of electricity may have contributed to the decrease in enthusiasm - in the past few years, even 'conventional' electricity has been so expensive that the payment of an extra price has not been seen as an attractive idea. It should also be kept in mind that in light of the statistics the trade in wind and other green electricity has been meagre, despite massive marketing in recent years. Thus preparedness to purchase in principle is only rarely realised in practice.