Wales is hoping to meet 100% of its energy needs by 2035 by using renewables. A new plan has been made by experts which sets out the need for Wales to allocate more money to renewables.
Research has been done over 3 years to come up with this new, promising plan for Wales. It outlines the need for more money as well as support for new technology and the upgrading of homes and businesses. It is estimated that 870,000 homes in Wales need better insulation as well as other energy saving measures to ensure energy demand is lower. It would also mean renewables would be more effective in meeting the energy needs of the country.
It is hoped that by 2030 in Wales, 70% of energy demand will come from renewable sources, but one of the biggest challenges that remains is heating. The current heating demand is high, and it is hoped that the new plans to insulate homes along with other options such as heat pumps, could fill the gap. It is possible that up to 170,000 heat pumps would be needed across Wales, along with biomass plants to supply the heat needed.
All welsh people have been urged to play their part and think about how to lead greener lives. Ysgol y Bedol School in Garnant, Carmarthenshire, have done just that. The school has chosen to install solar panels, over 200 in fact, on their roof. The solar panels have saved the school thousands on their energy bills as well as helping the children to learn more about renewables, something the teachers have now incorporated into lessons. The company responsible for installing the panels, Egni, now has big plans for other buildings and businesses. Director Dan McCallum said:
 "everyone recognises about climate change and we've got to do something - we can't get bogged down in bureaucracy and reasons why we can't".
Wales has a strong determination to reach these targets and the plans set out are promising for the future of renewables in the country. Their plan outlines the use of tidal power to boost the energy supply when other sources such as wind and sun are low. During the winter months especially, this will give the backup needed to ensure energy demand is met. Not only will the plans boost green energy production, but they will also boost jobs. It is expected to create around 20,000 full time jobs for the country.
It seems Wales is one country to watch in the future!
