Wind power - A breath of fresh air (Kirklees Liberal Democrats)

Kirklees Liberal Democrats <info@kirkleeslibdems.org.uk>

Wind power - A breath of fresh air

October 14, 2005 10:51 AM

Wind turbine (windmill). Lib Dems in Kirklees are leading the way in an important debate about how we generate electricity in the future. They have also asked local MP's to support the plans by making sure they are in parliament to vote for the Sustainable energy bill and micro-generation bills in the House of Commons on 11th November.

Councillor Ann Denham, Liberal Democrat Environmental spokesperson says that "Microgeneration, or micropower is the production of power on the smallest of scales.Unlike large power stations, micropower appliances are situated very close to where the power is used. It is much more efficient than big plants that distribute their power to places hundreds of miles away, and can help people save money on their electricity bills. Micropower technologies are environmentally friendly, and most release no carbon dioxide (carbon dioxide emissions are effecting climate change). Microgeneration also improves diversity and security of energy supply, and can even provide back up power during black-outs."

Councillor Denham says that "Whilst microgeneration is not a familiar word there are many examples of microgeneration that are familiar such as wind turbines to produce electricity. You can even install a wind turbine on your roof to save on your electricity bills! Other examples are solar panels that are used to heat water. Solar water heating, using roof mounted panels can provide 40-50% of a household's hot water needs. And Biomass heating involves using fast growing trees such as Willow or Poplar as commercial energy crops. As trees use up carbon dioxide as they grow, this is a low carbon energy source."

"If householders install micro-units in their own homes this will be a great way to tackle important issues such as climate change and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Residents will also be able to save by reducing the amount of energy they buy, help the environment by reducing emissions of harmful greenhouse gases and have their own back-up power in the event of supply failure. We welcome this initiative which has cross-party support and hope that all parties on Kirklees Council will be able to support the Liberal Democrats in this debate".