The Shelton Group, a local energy-related PR firm, has a series of interesting survey reports regarding consumer attitudes about energy.

• Energy Pulse Survey Reflects Consumer Energy-Use Denial: Despite government reports to the contrary, consumers say they aren't using any more energy than before, and do not believe increasing demand contributes to higher costs. Saving money was cited as the number one reason to conserve, up from number three last year.

• Energy Pulse Survey Shows Mix of Rising Awareness, Confusion About Energy and Renewables: 81% of people in the South did not know that most electricity is generated by coal-fired power plants. 41% of people surveyed could not name a renewable energy resource. Less than 5% know that coal-fired power plants are the leading source of greenhouse gas emissions, and most think it is transportation related (cars and trucks).

• Obama White House to Face Long-Held Consumer Denial and Awareness Hurdles in Realizing New Energy Solutions: Most consumers blame the government and oil companies for rising fuel and energy costs. 90% believe the government should be taking steps to reduce our dependence of fossil fuels. Only 13% believe we should drill offshore and in the ANWR.