VALE of Clwyd residents are preparing to kick up a storm amidst claims new Government legislation could spark a race to build wind farms across the region. Over 100 protesters packed into Church House in Nantglyn to lobby local MP David Jones over plans to construct a total of 29 turbines near the village. But the Clwyd West representative revealed worse may be yet to come for other rural areas due to Government plans to encourage other sources of renewable energy – which could result in a glut of onshore wind farm applications before the measures are introduced. Currently, an incentive scheme ensures generating companies which invest in renewable energy sources are paid lucrative sums by suppliers for each megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity they produce. But potential reforms to the system would see generators who invest in more expensive, but potentially more productive, technology such as offshore wind or wave power receiving more credits. It means companies are now hurrying to erect turbines before the present payment system is halted. Speaking after the Nantglyn meeting Mr Jones said: “The energy white paper, expected next month, is likely to recommend the banding of Renewables Obligation Certificates (ROCs) so as to encourage the development of other sources of generation. “The problem is that this will require primary legislation and is unlikely to come into force until 2009 at the earliest. “The consequence of the threatened banding will be a dash to construct as many wind farms as possible, so as to benefit from the lucrative, unbanded ROCs.” He added: “The people of Nantglyn were therefore right to show their concern at the meeting.” Local resident Jane Yorke claimed the number of residents who attended the conference gave a clear indication of the depth of feeling against plans. WindPower Wales want to build 16 turbines, each 100 metres high, next to the existing Tir Mostyn site, which currently has 25 turbines. And Tegni Cymru Cyf are planning 13 turbines, each 125 metres tall, towards the north west of the village boundary at Gorsedd Bran. Mrs Yorke claimed residents would continue to appeal to the local authority, question any planning applications and seek to widen public awareness of issues. “The turnout was well over 100 people, and they were even trying to listen through the door,” she said. “It made it very apparent that people felt strongly. We are anticipating a bombardment of developments in the Clocaenog Forest area in the next couple of years because of this legislation. “But this idea of covering the countryside with turbines and decimating it in the process is simply not acceptable.” matt.sims | 
