The Welsh Conservatives have reiterated calls on Labour to provide increased support for small-scale hydro schemes following the news that Bethesda hydro scheme has helped cut electricity bills by 25%.
Commenting on the news, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Janet Finch-Saunders MS said:
“Small hydro power schemes not only help combat climate change but also play a pivotal role in cutting costs during a time when energy prices are rising.
“For years, the Welsh Conservatives have been calling for the reinstation of business rates relief for these small-scale run hydro projects following Labour’s ridiculous decision to abandon them.
“It is past time that Labour stopped being mere observers and started tacking decisive action in the interest of small communities, helping cut the cost of power and combatting climate change.”
An estimated 75% of hydro schemes in Wales are under local ownership.
Labour ministers ended business rate relief from hydropower scheme under local ownership leading the British Hydropower Association to accuse them of abandoning small-scale hydro operators.