Plug Pulled on Green Energy

The ruling Tories on Basingstoke Council have blocked

proposals to use Council buildings and land for

generating green electricity. Under the scheme put

forward by the Lib Dem, Gavin James, the Council would

have surveyed all its property and land and incorporated

solar panels, wind turbines and other renewable options

where it was viable to do so. New rules introduced by the

Lib Dems in Westminster mean Councils can sell any surplus

energy they generate to the national grid to fund services and

keep Council tax lower.

Cllr Gavin James said "I am disappointed that the Tories

were not prepared to work with us on this. We already

see other local Councils investing in renewable energy.

This scheme could save the Council money and protect

local people from fluctuating gas and oil prices. It

would be good for the environment and good for the

economy. You have to wonder what the local Tories priorities are".