Star comment: Debate on energy is essential
One of the key themes of this month's General Election was the devolution of powers away from Westminster.
The people of Scotland and Wales spoke most loudly about their desire to take more control over their lives.
But people in regions across the UK also demonstrated an appetite to have greater autonomy over their daily affairs. The Government would appear to be listening with Chancellor George Osborne admitting the old model of London control is broken and regions need more self-governance.
Here in Shropshire and Mid Wales, there are numerous issues where local people can genuinely stake a claim to knowing more than power-brokers in London. The topic of renewable energy is one such example.
While there are a myriad of national targets for regions to meet in terms of generating energy for the National Grid, it is often the case that locals know best how to go about that. The debate surrounding renewable energy here in Shropshire and Mid Wales has been protracted.
Numerous projects have aroused debate: From proposed gas drilling in North Shropshire to planned windfarm and turbine installations at numerous locations. There is also the issue of the Mid Wales connection project, which could see pylons across the region.
There is tangible frustration at a local level that decisions are being transferred up to a national level, after being taken out of the hands of those who know best.
The issue of sustainable energy was notable by its absence in the General Election campaigns, with the exception of the Greens. The issue of how best to provide that energy is unresolved.
Local people deserve more information on the long-term effects of renewable installations: From windfarms and turbines to fracking locations and solar farms.
Amber Rudd, the new energy secretary, has already announced that residents will be able to block all future onshore windfarms under new measures to be fast-tracked into law. This is good news.
We live in a world where there will always be an element of NIMBY-ism shrouding debate.
It is understandable that some will not want their local landscape to be be spoiled by renewable installations.
However, frank and honest debates at a local level are the best way to resolve such issues.
