MHK calls for reset of 'energy balance' on Island

Gov't should not be pursuing renewable energy 'at any cost' says Moorhouse

Politicians on the Isle of Man need to reassess the role of renewable energy and not pursue it ‘at any cost’.

That’s the view of Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse who has tabled a Tynwald motion calling for the ‘energy balance’ to be changed.

He says whilst it has a role in the Island’s future it should be delivered in a way that protects the environment, respects local communities and represents value for money.

The motion reads as follows:

"That Tynwald is of the opinion that changing the energy balance toward renewable resources can be achieved, but should be done without a negative environmental impact and should embrace affordable and appropriate mechanisms; while renewable energy has a role in the Island’s future, it should not be pursued at any cost, and should instead be delivered in a way that protects our environment, respects local communities, and represents genuine value for money."

The motion comes ahead of a planning application for the Cair Vie onshore windfarm at Earystane which is believed to be imminent.

The lack of detail around the project has drawn criticism from Arbory and Rushen Parish Commissioners. You can find out more HERE.

Jason Moorhouse says it’s time to look again at plans for renewable resources:

Tynwald will sit between 19 and 21 May.