A new deal has been launched to ensure Wales meets its renewable
energy targets, whilst maximising the benefits for
communities.
The Renewable Energy Sector Deal will be a strategic partnership
between Welsh Government and industry, focused on unlocking the
full economic potential of Wales' renewable energy future.
It coincides with the publication of the latest Energy Generation
and Energy Use in Wales report, which shows renewable electricity
generation in Wales in 2024 was equivalent to 54% of its
electricity consumption.
The target is for renewable electricity generation to meet 70% of
our consumption by 2030 and 100% by 2035, whilst also delivering
at least 1.5 gigawatts of locally owned renewable energy capacity
by 2035.
The Sector Deal will help deliver on these ambitious targets by
accelerating renewable deployment across onshore and offshore
wind, solar, marine and hydro. It also aims to strengthen supply
chains, build the workforce of the future and ensure that
communities across Wales reap the benefits.
, the Cabinet Secretary for
Economy, Energy and Planning, will launch the Sector Deal on a
visit to the Morlais tidal energy project, in Anglesey.
Owned and managed by the social enterprise Menter Môn, the
Morlais scheme – which the Welsh Government has an £8m equity
stake in – will become the largest consented tidal energy project
in Europe.
The Cabinet Secretary said:
“Our ambition is to become a world leader in renewable energy,
creating jobs and green growth to make families in Wales more
prosperous and to help with the cost of living.
“The current conflict in the Middle East has further highlighted
the importance of energy independence. Our Renewable Energy
Sector Deal will provide a strong foundation for the future
delivery of renewable energy – to the benefit of our economy,
environment and energy security.
“The Morlais project is a strong example of how sustained
partnership can unlock Wales' natural energy resources and
convert them into lasting economic opportunity for local
communities and businesses.
“The Energy Generation and Energy Use report also shows we are
making progress towards our renewable energy targets. Combine
this with the record 20 major renewable energy projects,
totalling 1,400 MW, to receive backing in the latest UK
Government Contracts for Difference auction round and it is clear
we are creating an environment for a more resilient, renewable
energy-powered future.”
Dafydd Gruffydd, Managing Director of Menter Môn, said:
“The Renewable Energy Sector Deal is an important step in
accelerating the growth of renewable energy in Wales and across
the UK. For Menter Môn, it recognises the important role marine
energy schemes like Morlais can play in strengthening energy
security, creating high-quality jobs, and delivering long-term
economic benefits for local communities like Anglesey.”
The Sector Deal was co-produced by a Task and Finish Group of
developers and community organisations.
Notes to editors
Renewable UK Cymru said:
“We're delighted to have supported this landmark sector deal,
bringing government, industry and communities together to
accelerate renewables and reduce reliance on volatile gas and
imported fossil fuels. It will secure jobs, anchor long-term
investment in our ports, manufacturing and supply chains, and put
Wales at the heart of the UK's clean energy economy - unlocking a
£10 billion opportunity for Welsh businesses, supporting 8,000
secure, well-paid jobs and delivering £183 million in community
benefit funds across Wales. We're committed to ensuring this
momentum is carried forward by the next government, and we
encourage all political parties to maintain - and strengthen -
support for renewable energy beyond the next election.”
Marine Energy Wales said:
“This sector deal reflects the significant collaboration that has
taken place between Welsh Government and industry over the past
year. Bringing together a wide range of voices from across the
renewable energy sector has helped shape a shared vision for how
Wales can accelerate clean energy deployment while maximising the
economic opportunities for Welsh businesses and communities. It
demonstrates what can be achieved when government and industry
work together with a clear and ambitious purpose.”
Solar Energy UK said:
“Solar energy is vital for Wales – for the economy, for
employment and for decarbonisation. Like any sector, it thrives
in a positive and stable policy environment, which is just what
the renewable energy sector deal delivers. Backed by the recent
announcement that solar or other sources of renewable power will
become a requirement for new build homes, we look forward to
significant growth across Wales in the coming years.”
This year's Energy Generation and Energy Use in Wales report
brings both the energy generation and energy use data together
for the first time. It also provides information on how Wales is
meeting its renewable energy targets.
