The following Position Statements have been published by the Society.
Renewable Energy
The Cambrian Mountains Society recognises the need to respond
to climate change, and to the increasing scarcity and cost of fossil fuels,
by reducing use of carbon-based fuels, and increasing availability and use
of renewable energy sources. We believe that the most reliable solutions will
be found by exploitation of wave and tidal power.
Within the Cambrian Mountains we note that the area already
makes a significant contribution:
a) Peat: large amounts of carbon dioxide are sequestered
in the peatlands;
b) Hydro: the major reservoirs generate hydro-electricity;
c) Wind: windpower has been introduced above Cwmrheidol and at Cefn
Croes.
Whilst there is scope for increasing the contribution of each
of these three components - and also for using forest by-products from the
area as biomass - we believe that any expansion of wind or hydro in these
uplands must be achieved in sympathy with the environment and landscape, and
with the communities which depend on them.
We therefore call for a moratorium on large-scale renewable
energy schemes in the Cambrian Mountains, and for the designation of the whole
area as an exemplar for the development and implementation of:
a) a peatland management strategy, designed to maximise carbon uptake and retention;
b) a micro-generation strategy, embracing wind, hydro and biomass.
These strategies would empower, involve and directly benefit
local communities.
