Member

My Amendment 185R seeks to ensure that planning authorities consider, wherever possible, how new developments can incorporate community energy, whether through shared solar projects, locally owned battery storage, direct heating schemes or simply ensuring that surplus energy remains available in the community rather than disappearing into the grid. Well-designed community energy projects not only decarbonise but build resilience, reduce bills and generate a direct sense of ownership and pride among our communities. For example, as I have mentioned before in debates on the Bill, I would like to see our seaside towns and communities benefiting from local wind generation schemes. I have been careful in my wording: I have put in a duty to “have regard to”, so this is not about enforcement but is designed to be flexible.