Solar, wind, mini-hydro, anaerobic digestion and other forms of sustainable bioenergy all have a role in UK energy security and provide substantial diversification incomes in support of profitable agricultural production.
Moreover, in the run up to November’s international climate talks in Paris, the unions (NFU, NFUS, UFU and NFU Cymru) say it is vital that governments acknowledge the unique capacity within the agricultural sector for tackling climate change.
To help realise the industry’s full potential the unions are asking their respective governments to:
- Deliver a transparent and consistent planning framework for new renewable energy installations
- Make a clear distinction between ‘farm wind’ and ‘wind farms’, in order to help our members continue diversifying and supporting their businesses with locally generated renewable electricity
- Ensure that each and every farm can become a net energy exporter, by finding smart ways to reduce the need for additional network capacity and offering more flexible connection terms