A ‘drop in surgery’ tomorrow morning will give Sark residents the chance to find out more about the ongoing work towards developing a ‘Sark Community Power’ plan ahead of a crucial States of Guernsey debate next week.
Guernsey’s politicians will be asked to back plans for the island to lend Sark up to £1.5million so ‘Sark Community Power’ can buy Sark Electricity Ltd.
The owner of SEL doesn’t want to sell so compulsory purchase may be the end result.
If the plans progress further, Sark Community Power would put ownership of the island’s electricity supply in the hands of residents, not a private business.
In time, Sark Community Power said it intends to invest in the island’s electricity infrastructure.
If the States of Guernsey agree to lend Sark the money to buy SEL, and start investment in its grid, Sark would be asked to repay Guernsey within 20 years.
In return, Guernsey would also get to see Sark’s planned tax review, and Sark would be involved in the Bailiwick Commission – reaffirming its relationship with Guernsey, alongside that of Guernsey and Alderney.
There is some political opposition to the plans in both Sark and Guernsey, but the Conseillers driving the plans for Sark Community Power believe they have the support of the majority of the public.
The plans are currently being led by Conseillers John Guille, Mike Locke, and Nathalie Tighe. All three will be available at the ‘drop in surgery’ being held in the Toplis Room on Saturday 26 April, between 09:00 and 11:00.