Janet Finch-Saunders MS, Shadow Minister for Climate Change has challenged the First Minister today on the Welsh Government’s lack of commitment to Welsh tidal lagoon projects across the country and has emphasized the need for the Welsh Government to promote large-scale renewable energy projects in Wales.
The Shadow Minister supports several projects being proposed around Wales which can strengthen jobs and communities outside of Cardiff, such as that of the Mostyn SeaPower project which has been estimated to create 300 construction jobs and bring low-carbon electricity to 82,000 homes.
Quoting the Managing Director of SeaPower Ltd, the Shadow Minister said, “To date we have invested heavily without any government funding in getting to this point, but we now need support to give potential funders added confidence to invest in the project.”
Janet Finch-Saunders is committed to overseeing proportionate accountability to the office of the Minister for Climate Change and will continue to work with the Government and the energy sector to create home grown jobs for Welsh communities.
Following her contribution, the Member added:
“I’m disappointed that the First Minister has made no commitment to support calls for renewable energy projects at a time when the war in Ukraine has highlighted the need for the United Kingdom to become more energy independent and less reliant of fossil fuels. It is imperative that Port Mostyn receives the backing of the First Minister and his cabinet or, he must explain to the people of North Wales why they continue to be left behind”.
Supplementary Question to the First:
- Will the First Minister clarify what support the Welsh Government will give to tidal energy projects in the next financial year?
