The Welsh Countryside Charity says offshore wind can deliver clean energy, skilled jobs and coastal regeneration, without placing unnecessary pressure on Wales’ valued rural landscapes.
CPRW, The Welsh Countryside Charity, has welcomed comments from Cabinet Minister Adam Price backing offshore wind as a key driver of jobs, growth and coastal regeneration in Wales.
The charity says offshore wind offers one of the strongest opportunities for Wales to meet its future clean electricity needs, while reducing pressure for inappropriate large-scale energy development across uplands, peatlands, productive farmland and rural communities.
CPRW has consistently argued that Wales needs renewable energy in the right places, at the right scale, and with genuine long-term benefit for Welsh communities.
Dr Jonathan Dean, CPRW energy specialist, said:
“Adam Price is making some very encouraging noises. Wales absolutely needs renewable energy, but we also need to be strategic about where it goes. Offshore wind has the potential to revitalise the economy in both north and south Wales, with genuine long-term service and support jobs linked to ports, maintenance, skills and supply chains.
“It can deliver clean electricity at the scale Wales needs, without forcing unnecessary trade-offs with our most valued landscapes, upland peat, rare habitats and rural communities. This should be the direction of travel for Wales: ambitious, strategic and offshore-led.”
Jonty Colchester, Chair of CPRW, said:
“CPRW strongly supports the transition to renewable energy, but it must be planned properly and in the public interest. Offshore wind gives Wales a major opportunity to lead: creating skilled jobs, supporting coastal communities and delivering clean energy, while helping to protect the countryside and landscapes that are central to our national identity.
“We welcome the Minister’s comments and urge Welsh Government to put offshore wind, marine energy, grid modernisation and Welsh supply-chain benefit at the heart of a clear national energy strategy.”
CPRW says Wales must move beyond a planning system that leaves rural communities reacting to speculative development, and instead adopt a strategic approach to renewable energy that protects landscapes, nature and communities while delivering the scale of clean power needed for the future.