Around 55% of people in the UK believe domestic gas should be prioritised over imported energy.

That includes shale gas, according to a survey by an alliance of trade associations such as Oil & Gas UK, United Kingdom Onshore Oil and Gas and the Chemical Industries Association.

It follows the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ report which stated the nation could face a power supply gap of 55% by 2025.

The research stated 56% of more than 2,000 people surveyed are concerned about power supplies next winter.

Yesterday, National Grid secured more than 800MW of extra electricity capacity for next winter.

Two thirds (66%) agreed natural gas has a role to play in helping the UK become a low carbon economy, it added.

The report also revealed although 61% said they are “well informed” about climate change, 56% agreed reducing the cost of energy is more important than environmental concerns.

Nick Sturgeon, Energy Director at the Chemical Industries Association said: “This research highlights that the UK population is incredibly dependent on gas and is increasingly conscious of environment issues. The UK population relates the need for gas in their daily lives to the need for the UK to deliver its own supply from both onshore and offshore.

“As an industry we need to do more to ensure we explain the value of gas to the economy and the environment. Gas heats 84% of our homes, produces 30% of our electricity and is an essential ingredient in everyday items such as mobile phones and toothbrushes.”

Yesterday, Prime Minister David Cameron pledged £20 million support for oil and gas sector in the North Sea.