Walshaw Moor wind farm: Calder Valley MP's warning at parliamentary debate over giant Calderdale wind farm plans
Calder Valley’s MP has been sharing his concerns at a parliamentary debate about proposals for what would be one of the country’s largest windfarms on Walshaw Moor above Hebden Bridge
Josh Fenton‑Glynn warned “green energy that comes at the cost of our environment is not, in fact, green” when he spoke at the debate in West Minster Hall yesterday.
He emphasised his strong support for renewable energy and recognition of the urgent need to tackle the climate crisis.
But his stance, he said, was based on clear evidence that damage to peatland anywhere would undermine climate goals.
Disturbing deep peat to construct wind turbines would risk releasing large quantities of stored carbon, potentially cancelling out the environmental benefits of the scheme over a 25‑year lifespan, he said.
Mr Fenton-Glynn said: “Green energy that comes at the cost of our environment is not, in fact, green.
"Projects which dig up peat are wrong - whether for homes, wind turbines or anything else.”
Calderdale Energy Park recently launched a consultation on the proposals, which runs until June 10.
The Planning Inspectorate will examine evidence, hear arguments and make a recommendation on the plans but the final approval or refusal for the proposals will be made at national Government level by Secretary of State for Energy and Net Zero Ed Milliband.
The wind farm plans have sparked opposition from some concerned about damage to protected peat bogs, impact on wildlife, increasing flood risk and releasing stored carbon.
Calderdale Energy Park says the 240 mega watt project presents a key opportunity to generate enough clean energy to power more than double the number of houses in Calderdale.