Research reveals Welsh renewable energy woes

Release/Rhyddhau: 13/06/06

Contact/Cyswllt: Ceirion Rees:
029 2089 8342/ 07733280105/ ceirion.rees@wales.gov.uk 

Research undertaken by a leading environmentalist has revealed that the Labour Assembly Government is set to miss its 2010 green energy target by 800MW.

A report commissioned by Welsh Liberal Democrat Environment Spokesperson, Mick Bates demonstrates how Wales is failing to reach its green energy commitments.  A stark contrast to Scotland that is set to meet a much tougher green energy target three years early. While Wales aims for 10% of energy from renewable resources by 2010, Scotland will have achieved its 18% target by 2007.

Commenting Mick said:  "It's incredible that Wales, with its statutory commitment to sustainable development, has fallen so far behind Scotland when it comes to green energy targets.  At the same time it's no surprise.  The Government has done little except write shiny strategy documents.  After many months of lobbying I saw just how little they were doing and decided to commission a report to see where we are and what can be done.

"Quite simply the government have failed.  They have failed to encourage people to use energy more effectively.  The have failed to encourage people to use small scale renewable energy systems on their homes.  They have failed to realise Wales' potential on things like bio-mass and energy crops. 

"The Government need to grasp the nettle and start taking these issues seriously.  That means taking action like encouraging more small scale development - providing council tax discounts for those who use it on their homes and making sure 10% of new build contains energy efficacy features.

"Climate change is the biggest long term problem we face.  The Government in Wales is failing to take that challenge seriously.  I urge them to get back to the drawing board and find a way to match the achievements of Scotland. "