NAW: Wales must go 100% renewable

The Environment and Sustainability Committee of the National Assembly for Wales (NAW) has today published a report which calls for a target date for meeting all energy needs from renewable energy in Wales.

In the context of the need to reduce carbon emissions by at least 80% by 2050, Wales should set a target date for achieving this, NAW said.

The Environment and Sustainability Committee also wants to see annual targets set to reduce energy demand and help people to use it more effectively.

The total of 19 recommendations are contained in a new report ‘A Smarter Energy Future for Wales’ which looks at issues including low carbon energy supply, energy demand management, and energy storage.

Other recommendations include establishing a clear vision for future energy projects, setting up a not-for-profit energy service company, amend planning policy to prioritise local and community renewable energy projects, establish a loan scheme similar to CARES in Scotland, and developing local supply chains to support renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency measures.

“Limiting future climate change by radically reducing the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere is one of the greatest challenges faced globally, and yet addressing this challenge also presents opportunities to significantly enhance the well-being of current and future generations,” said Alun Ffred Jones, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee.

Welcoming the report, David Clubb, Director of RenewableUK Welsh office, said: “I am delighted that the recommendations cover all aspects of energy, including building regulations, energy efficiency and energy generations. I have previously called for the implementation of similar policies, and it is encouraging to see cross-party support for a far more strategic approach to the topic in Wales.

“I wholeheartedly endorse the Committee’s recommendations, and look forward to working closely with the new administration to help implement them as soon as possible after the May election.”