Sussex MP quizzes energy and climate change secretary, Amber Rudd, on solar industry

A Sussex MP quizzed the energy and climate change secretary, Amber Rudd, yesterday (Thursday, September 17) on the issue of support for the solar industry.
Maria CaulfieldMaria Caulfield
Maria Caulfield

Maria Caulfield, who is MP for the Lewes constituency, used a session in Parliament to raise the issue.

She said: “Recent changes to subsidies have created some difficulties and uncertainty for solar companies in my constituency. It is important that all energy companies are able to compete on a level playing field.

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“I was pleased to be able to take this opportunity to raise this important issue with the Secretary of State on the floor of the House of Commons.

Amber Rudd SUS-150130-135056001Amber Rudd SUS-150130-135056001
Amber Rudd SUS-150130-135056001

“I will continue to push the Government on this issue as it is only right and fair that energy companies compete on a level playing field and that one sector is not unfairly disadvantaged.”

In responding, Ms Rudd acknowledged the Lewes MP’s interest and lobbying efforts, saying: “I know that she (Maria Caulfield) has a particular interest in solar companies in her constituency and has brought them to my attention before.”

Last month Ms Rudd, MP for Hastings and Rye, was criticised for changes to the Government’s energy policies.

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As secretary of state for energy and climate change she announced plans to cut subsidies to solar power projects and the end to Green Deal funding, which helped people make their houses more energy efficient.

The moves were part of the Government’s wider review of energy policy.

Ms Rudd said her first priority was to get spending under control.

At the time of the announcements, she said: “My priorities are clear. We need to keep bills as low as possible for hardworking families and businesses while reducing our emissions in the most cost-effective way.

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“Our support has driven down the cost of renewable energy significantly. As costs continue to fall it becomes easier for parts of the renewables industry to survive without subsidies.”

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