Assembly Government's energy plan shows vision and ambition

15 March 2010

The Low Carbon Revolution energy statement by the Welsh Assembly Government has been welcomed by Friends of the Earth Cymru.

The Director of the environmental charity, Gordon James, said:

"We welcome the low carbon energy policy launched by the Welsh Assembly Government today. This is precisely the sort of vision and ambition we need if we are to successfully tackle the problems of climate change and peak oil.

"This policy will also improve energy security and ensure that Wales reaps the economic and job-creation benefits of the rapidly expanding global green economy. Just as Wales took a lead in the industrial revolution, we believe it can also have an important role in the green energy revolution.

"Meeting these targets will be challenging but the effort must be made to harness Wales' abundant renewable energy sources from the wind, sea and sun and to significantly improve energy efficiency.

"We do not believe that the Severn Barrage has a role to play in this scenario because other technologies, such as tidal lagoons and tidal reefs, could harness energy from the Severn sooner and will less environmental impact.

"This recognition of the huge potential of renewable energy also shows that there is no need for nuclear power in Wales."

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