The Liberal Democrats in Government have announced eight major renewable projects as part of electricity reforms, which will give a massive boost to green growth and green jobs.
The projects are delivering low-carbon, affordable and reliable power for the long-term that is better for the planet, consumers and the economy. By 2020, the projects will provide up to £12 billion of private sector investment, supporting 8,500 jobs and will generate clean electricity to three million homes across the country.
Once built, the successful projects will reduce emissions and contribute around 14% of the renewable electricity we expect in 2020, helping the UK to meet its renewable energy target.
The Pen-Y-Cymoedd onshore wind farm in South Wales is one example of this investment. Utilising a pool of Welsh engineers and labour to deliver the project as well as creating new jobs and skills legacy for the region. There are contract wins for Wales worth more than £100 million, which will support more than 350 Welsh jobs over the next two years.
William Powell AM, Welsh Liberal Democrat Energy and Environment Spokesperson, said:
“Renewable energy has a critical role to play in tackling climate change, improving energy security, lowering consumer bills, and creating jobs. I am pleased to see that the Liberal Democrats in Government are standing firm against those who would deny climate change and oppose the jobs and investment which such projects create.”
Ed Davey MP, Secretary of State for the Department of Energy and Climate Change, added:
“These contracts for major renewable electricity projects mark a new stage in Britain’s green energy investment boom. By themselves they will bring green jobs and growth across the UK, but they are a significant part of our efforts to give Britain cleaner and more secure energy.
“These are the first investments from our reforms to build the world’s first low carbon electricity market – reforms which will see competition and markets attract tens of billions of pounds of vital energy investment whilst reducing the costs of clean energy to consumers.
“Record levels of energy investment are at the forefront of the Government’s infrastructure programme and are filling the massive gap we inherited. It’s practical reforms like these that will keep the lights on and tackle climate change, by giving investors more certainty. There has been significant growth in the renewable electricity sector, with the renewables’ share of total electricity generation more than doubling since 2010. The eight major renewable electricity projects will help towards delivering the 30% of renewable electricity expected in 2020.”
