Welsh government's energy vision just tinkering around the edges

14 March 2012

14 March 2012

The Welsh Government is ill-equipped to deliver its vision of a low carbon economy bringing a wealthy future for Wales, despite First Minister Carwyn Jones today (Weds 14 March) hailing green energy as a "golden opportunity" for Wales [1].

Friends of the Earth Cymru welcomes the ambition that Wales should lead the way in green energy, but believes the Welsh Government is forced to tinker around the edges of energy policy, as the UK Government refuses to let go of power over major energy infrastructure in Wales. Wales is already falling behind other parts of the UK in both ambition and delivery of renewable energy.

Gareth Clubb, Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru, said:

"If this is the Welsh Government's vision of a low carbon transition, it's a transition that's going to take a very, very long time indeed.

"We're tinkering around the edges of what the First Minister quite rightly points out is a defining issue of our generation. In the meantime, Scottish ambition is nothing short of breathtaking, with a clear vision of a 100% renewable future.

"Wales desperately needs the powers over planning and consenting for major energy infrastructure to free ourselves from the Whitehall mandarins who have no interest in Wales taking the lead in renewable jobs.

"Devolution of powers over energy is working for Scotland, and if we're not going to be left behind, we must see it coming to Wales. It's good for the environment, good for job creation, and it's the only way Wales can play a full role in reducing our climate changing emissions. This is what we need to start hearing from the Welsh Government." 

 NOTES

1. On the launch of 'Energy Wales: A Low Carbon Transition'

For further information, please contact Friends of the Earth Cymru on 029 2022 9577