Wales must take control over future of large scale energy policy (Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats)

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Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats <montlibdems@gmail.com>

Wales must take control over future of large scale energy policy

October 8, 2008 12:00 AM

Latest figures show that greenhouse gases in 2006 have actually risen by 3.9% since 2005. Commenting on the impact of large energy developments on the future emissions levels in Wales, Welsh Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for the Environment, Mick Bates AM, highlights the need for Wales to take control over its future large scale energy policy.

Mick Bates AM:

"Electricity generation must become a priority and Wales needs the power to decide on its own direction for generating electricity and cutting emissions. We cannot leave the situation as it is where we must wait for Westminster to make a decision before we know the future of our energy policy in Wales.

"There are five new power stations in the planning process in Wales. If these all go ahead, there is a potential for an extra 22million tonnes of CO2 to be released into the atmosphere each year. This would have a devastating impact on our environment and negate all positive work so far.

"The Planning Bill was a golden opportunity for Wales to take control over decisions on large energy projects. The Liberal Democrats in Westminster put forward an amendment to the Planning Bill that would have allowed these decisions to be made in Wales - sadly the Labour party voted these down and the Conservatives abstained. Only one Plaid MP bothered to vote in favour of our amendment.

"It is vital that we take control over large energy developments above 50MW, so that we can say no to these new power stations and protect Wales from the massive increase in carbon emissions that would result."

Ends/Diwedd

Notes:

The Welsh Liberal Democrat debate today reads:

NDM4025 Kirsty Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire)

The National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes with concern that:

a) CO2 emissions have increased by 4.7% on 2005 levels;

b) Total emissions of the six greenhouse gases have increased by 3.9% on 2005 levels.

2. Calls on the Welsh Assembly Government to:

a) Bring forward legislation to devolve powers over energy developments greater than 50MW;

b) Bring forward legislation to devolve powers over building regulations;

c) Produce a full environmental appraisal on all new road developments in Wales;