Edwina Hart, Minister for Economy, Science and Transport
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
I am writing to announce my intention to set up a Rural Development Task and Finish Group. The purpose of the group is to develop and recommend a strategic plan on a sustainable approach to economic growth and well being in the Rural Economy.
This will include investigating the barriers to growth of the development of renewable energy in rural areas (including grid constraints and efficient energy storage) in order to deliver Jobs, Growth, Wealth, improving community well being, to combat fuel poverty whilst advancing the cause of communities in rural Wales through renewable energy and related matters.
I have asked Jeremy Smith, Welsh Development Manager of RWE Innogy, to Chair the Group, and they have accepted the invitation.
The membership of the Group has been agreed as:
Economic Academic Expert Peter Midmore
Planning Issues Expert Edmund Bailey
North Wales Credit Union Rina Clarke
Grid – CEW Chris Blake
Forestry – CONFOR Martin Bishop
Sector SME - MD Dulas Ltd Phil Horton
OFGEM Rep - Observer James Veaney
Biomass – Severn Wye Energy Agency Dr Rachel Smith
The first meeting of the Group will take place shortly.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Assembly returns I would be happy to do so.