News

May: new measures to promote local green energy are welcome

  • 11 Jul 2006

Theresa May MP, Shadow Leader of the House, today welcomed proposals by the Government to make it easier for homes to install small-scale renewable energy, such as solar water heating or mini-wind turbines. The move by the Government to change planning rules comes after a Conservative campaign to push for more green energy and micro-generation.

Also this week, David Cameron has made a major speech calling for:

  • A level playing field between renewable and other forms of energy generation.
  • Encouraging local generators to sell any spare electricity they generate back to the National Grid.
  • Improving and streamlining planning procedures for green energy.

May explained,

“I welcome that the Government has responded to cross-party pressure to make it easier for homes in Maidenhead and across the country to install renewable energy like solar panels or mini-wind turbines. Where the Government offers positive, constructive and reasonable policies, they will have my support.

“But the Government could do far more to promote green energy, rather than giving unfair subsidies to new nuclear power stations. Conservatives want to enhance our environment by seeking a long-term cross-party consensus on sustainable development and climate change – instead of short-term thinking or surrendering to vested interests. The modern, compassionate Conservative Party believes that quality of life matters just as much as quantity of money.”