FROM AWARENESS TO ACCEPTANCE: UNDERSTANDING PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE AND EFFICIENCY PERCEPTIONS OF SYNTHETIC FUELS THROUGH A SURVEY ANALYSIS

Abstract:

This study investigates public perceptions of synthetic fuels (e-fuels and other Power-to-X pathways) as a component of sustainable energy transitions, focusing on efficiency, awareness, knowledge, and acceptance. While synthetic fuels are increasingly discussed as complementary solutions to electrification—particularly for hard-to-abate sectors—their societal legitimacy and perceived value remain underexplored. Based on a mixed-methods survey of 164 participants in Germany, the analysis combines descriptive statistics with subgroup comparisons across generations, regions, and education levels. The results show broad acknowledgement of the technical feasibility of synthetic fuels but persistent concerns regarding low energy efficiency and cost competitiveness. Substantial knowledge and awareness deficits are identified, with political institutions perceived as the primary actors responsible. Although normative environmental responsibility is high, this is only partially reflected in actual behavioural choices, especially in mobility. The study contributes theoretically by integrating socio-technical transition perspectives with perception research, empirically by providing differentiated evidence on public attitudes toward synthetic fuels, and from a policy perspective by identifying leverage points for communication strategies, regulatory design, and market formation. The findings underline that the diffusion of synthetic fuels depends not only on technological maturity but also on coherent governance frameworks and targeted societal engagement.

Keywords: synthetic fuels; sustainable energy transition; public perception; energy efficiency; policy acceptance