Tim Farron calls for ministers to help small renewable energy producers to supply to their local community

On the floor of the House of Commons this week, local MP Tim Farron asked government ministers to support community renewable energy companies in Cumbria.

The creation of local energy markets would enable smaller renewable energy schemes – especially those owned and run by local community groups – to sell their power directly to local people.

Speaking during Energy Security and Net Zero Questions in Parliament, Tim said: “A major gap in our ability to make progress in reducing emissions is the disconnect - both literally and figuratively - between small renewable energy schemes and the communities in which they are situated. 

“I think in particular of the Coniston hydro scheme, which faces resilience and sustainability issues relating to the removal of Renewable Obligation Certificates. 

“Is the answer to this not the creation of local energy markets to reduce the gap between service users and energy producers? 

“Will the Government back the urgent delivery of P441 to make local energy markets a reality, save Coniston hydro scheme and service the local community?”

Responding, the Minister for Climate, Katie White said: “In this role, there are a lot of acronyms. I have to say that I did not know P441 until I sat on this bench, but I understand from my colleagues that we are looking into that. 

“We support local community projects, and we will be looking at that project and will come back to the honourable member on P441.”

Speaking afterwards, Tim said: “Creating local energy markets would make it easier for households and businesses to buy power from local, renewable sources.

“This would make new community renewable energy businesses viable, helping to cut carbon emissions and potentially lower energy bills.”