Shifting public perception: A longitudinal analysis of national and local media narratives on nuclear and wind energy in France

Abstract

In a global effort to mitigate climate change, decarbonized energies have become a paramount objective, yet face significant reluctance as relayed in the media. This research presents longitudinal topic modeling and qualitative analyses of media narratives surrounding nuclear and wind energy in France from 2005 to 2022, across national and local newspapers. Our findings reveal a notable trend: while nuclear maintains its historically positive public perceptions, wind faces persistent criticism and struggles for acceptance. Additionally, media narratives juxtapose the strengths of nuclear against the limitations of wind, thus fostering a perception of greater viability and security for nuclear. These results shed new light on the role of media in shaping public perceptions on energy technologies, providing valuable insights for stakeholders involved in the energy transition. • A topic modeling and qualitative analysis of of French national and local newspapers' narratives from 2005 to 2022. • Nuclear maintains its positive public perceptions and its stigma diminish over time. • Wind power is progressively stigmatized by media narratives. • Nuclear public perception is reinforced by highlighting wind weaknesses. • Local press narratives are more critical than national press on both technologies.