What steps has the Minister taken to review the decision to withdraw rates support for small-scale private hydroelectric projects in Wales, in light of concerns that up to 75 per cent of the Welsh sector is set to lose out?
Answered by Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs | Answered on 22/01/2021
Our recent Energy Generation in Wales report showed there are 363 hydropower projects in Wales. Since 2018, Welsh Government has provided grant support to 60 (17%) of these projects towards payment of their business rates. We have provided over £1 million of support to the sector for this purpose.
We will consider options for longer term support for hydropower and other renewable technologies when the next revaluation takes place in 2023.