East Surrey MP, Peter Ainsworth, has put forward the Green Energy Bill which aims to encourage the use of small-scale renewable energy and help alleviate fuel poverty.

The Bill, which is due for its Second Reading on the 8 th May, is intended to help kick-start the market for green energy. It will require the Government to reform planning law, making it easier for home and land owners to place small units – such as wind turbines and solar panels – on their properties, and will put in place strict safeguards to protect against noise and visual nuisance.

The greater use of green energy will create green jobs, be a boost to small business, and be an environmentally-friendly way out of the current recession.

Mr Ainsworth commented:

“I am delighted to be putting forward the Green Energy Bill which will help kick-start the wider take-up of green energy, and make it easier for us all to do our bit in reducing carbon emission and saving energy costs.

“Generating our own electricity will also bring fuel bills down which, which is great news for everyone – but especially the least well off our in our communities.

“I very much hope that my Bill, which has cross-party support, will get the backing it needs from the Government in order to succeed.”

The Bill also has the full support of the National Farmers Union and industry groups such as the Micropower Council. Commenting on the Bill, Micropower Council Chief Executive Dave Sowden said:

“In these difficult economic times all industries need an impetus to spur on future investment. This Bill will provide this impetus and enable small business and developing technologies to grow. If this Bill fails it will be a smack in the teeth to our industry.”