Caerphilly Council has demonstrated cross party commitment to support a bill that would increase domestically generated clean energy, helping to boost local economies.

The notice of motion, agreed by full council, sees Caerphilly join local authorities across the UK supporting the bill.

The notice of motion was clear in acknowledging the efforts that Caerphilly Council has made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy in an effort to promote greener and cleaner lifestyles.

If it is made law, it would create a new ‘Right to Local Supply’ of energy that would empower communities to sell locally generated electricity directly to local households and businesses. Currently, customers can only purchase electricity from nationally licensed utilities.

Leader of Council, Cllr. Philippa Marsden said, “We are a forward thinking council and we continue to look for innovative ways to deliver services in a green and sustainable way fit for the future. We are supporting this bill to become law to allow electricity generators, such as local companies or community groups to sell their energy directly to local people – and make it financially viable to do so, resulting in a potential boost to the local economy and a reduction in local greenhouse gas emissions.”

A letter outlining Caerphilly’s support has been sent to local MP’s and the organisers of the campaign for the Bill, Power for People.