A hydro scheme and plans for better digital links have been added to the Scottish Government list of nationally-important developments. The two key proposals are in a list of 14 schemes considered vital to economic growth. Planning minister Derek Mackay said: “The proposed framework will benefit every part of Scotland Read more
IT SOMETIMES seems as if every aspect of our lives is subject to environmental regulations of one kind or another. Empty wine bottles must be left out on the pavement in the appropriate receptacle. Every object you purchase comes with instructions on how it can be recycled after use. And Read more
The close of last year (17 December 2013, to be precise) saw the commencement date for section 122 of the Localism Act 2011. This introduces a duty to consult the local community before making a planning application for wind turbine developments that involve the installation of more than two turbines, Read more
Three crewmen have been rescued from a boat which caught fire at sea. http://www.energyvoice.com/2014/01/three-rescued-burning-windfarm-service-boat-north-sea/
Germany’s energy feed-in act is skidding out of control – and risks causing a social uprising. The power grid is becoming ever more precarious and electricity prices for consumers are at record levels. The German government, on the other hand, is reacting like a petrified deer caught in the headlights. Read more
Household rubbish buried decades ago in landfill sites could be a fuel of the future, a government minister has said. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-25731026
Environment secretary Owen Paterson visited Northumberland last Saturday to meet local campaigners concerned about the impact of giant wind turbines on local communities. http://www.berwick-advertiser.co.uk/news/local/all-news/environment-secretary-addresses-wind-turbine-concerns-1-3267586
A leading SNP member of the Scottish Parliament has condemned a batch of intimidating letters sent to people who have objected to wind turbine proposals. The crudely written and mis-spelt letters were sent to three people in the Stranraer area of Dumfries and Galloway and are now being investigated by Read more