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Environment and Infrastructure will lead the debate, due to start on Wednesday.

E&I wants to discuss ways of utilising wind resources in conjunction with France and Jersey.

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Pictured: Wednesday’s debate on the Electricity Strategy will include a focus on wind farms.

The CGi did raise some concerns about the security of electricity supplies, Guernsey’s ability to maintain energy affordability and ways of identifying achievable targets for renewable energy sources, during the consultation process last year.

It also raised concerns about the issue of regulation and the role of Guernsey Electricity, and the need to deliver prompt progress and real opportunities for local businesses.

The CGi also made representations during the consultation process about solar power opportunities locally, which it said would allow on-Island providers to invest in their businesses in support of this opportunity and the more proportionate and staged approach to regulation to avoid introducing unnecessary additional costs which would ultimately be passed on to consumers. 

Dave Newman, CGi chairman, said some members feel the Electricity Strategy could have gone further, but he thinks most concerns have been addressed and he is happy to back it.

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Pictured: Dave Newman, CGi Chairman.

“Security of supply and affordable energy are the absolute priorities for us and our members and we are pleased to see that pathway D does recognise this, along with adopting proven technology in the short to medium term and the ability to introduce novel technologies in the future if suited to Guernsey,” said Mr Newman.

“Whilst there remain a few points we would disagree on and some areas where the strategy could have gone further to support our members’ interests, we feel that the Policy Letter has addressed our principal concerns and we are happy to offer our support for it.”

Mr Newman added: “We have been waiting for the Electricity Strategy for a long time but are pleased that the preferred option from E&I appears to allow for progress towards achieving real outcomes for the industry and our community. We would therefore urge the States to approve the Policy Letter without delay.”

The States debate, including the Electricity Strategy, is due to start any 09:30 on Wednesday 5 July.

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