RenewableUK Cymru has criticised Reform UK Wales’ manifesto proposal to ban new onshore wind and solar projects.
Director of RenewableUK Cymru Jess Hooper (pictured) said the policy would increase energy costs and weaken security in Wales.
She argued that high power prices are driven by gas markets rather than renewable generation.
“High energy bills aren’t caused by renewable energy. Instead, they’re the result of unpredictable gas prices and the UK’s heavy use of gas.”
The organisation said electricity demand in Wales is projected to at least double and potentially triple by 2050.
RenewableUK Cymru added that Wales risks missing major economic opportunities despite having strong wind, solar and tidal resources.
The group said an ambitious pipeline of projects could secure £10 billion worth of business for Welsh companies and create 8,000 jobs with average salaries of £49,000.
“The manifesto commitment to ban new onshore wind and solar would only lead to higher bills, weaker energy security, and Wales would miss out on the huge opportunity to secure new jobs and investment.”