The survey series was launched in 1983 at the University of Tampere, and was initially financed by the energy company Imatran Voima (later known as the Fortum Corporation). Finnish public opinion on energy policy issues was studied by annual mail surveys. Comparative data allow detailed empirical analysis and systematic follow-up of citizen perceptions, opinions, beliefs, knowledge, values, and attitudes on these matters.
The surveys were carried out by Yhdyskuntatutkimus and jointly produced by the Fortum Corporation (Imatran Voima until 1998) and Teollisuuden Voima (TVO). The Finnish Energy Industries (ET) was responsible for publishing the results from 2004 onwards. The data collection for this series has been finished, but the same themes are studied in the Finnish Energy Attitudes series.
The survey charted Finnish attitudes to energy production and energy strategy. The data are part of an extensive survey series launched in 1983. Respondents' conceptions, opinions, beliefs, assessments, attitudes and knowledge about various energy issues were studied by presenting several statements relating to energy production. The aim of this survey was to predict the consequences of the liberalisation of energy markets in 1997 which allows consumers to choose their own electricity supplier. Respondents were also asked in what direction electric power production should be developed in Finland.
Background variables included respondents' gender, age, region of residence, occupational group, basic and vocational education, political party preference and number of inhabitants in respondents' municipality of residence.