Agenda item

To receive and consider a response to the consultation on a proposed policy aimed at ensuring local communities benefit from new renewable and clean energy projects through financial contributions and shared ownership opportunities, and to provide feedback to help shape the final policy.

The Committee received and considered correspondence from Oxfordshire County Council’s relating to the consultation on annual community payments from renewable energy.

Members discussed the content and noted the length and complexity of the survey questions. It was therefore agreed that a coordinated response on behalf of the Town Council would be prepared, ensuring alignment with the Council’s climate objectives and its commitment to supporting renewable energy initiatives.

In doing so, attention was drawn to one of the Committee’s Terms of Reference which was to “explore and promote the expansion of community energy to keep the benefits of our local energy generation in our local economy". It was agreed that this principle should be reflected within the Council’s response.

The Committee agreed that the submission would be made jointly by the Leader of the Council, the Chair of the Committee, and the Deputy Leader. Members also noted that individual councillors were able to submit their own responses should they wish to do so.

The delegation to the three Members was supported in order to ensure that a clear, consistent, and considered response could be prepared in an efficient manner, reflecting the Council’s strategic priorities and commitment to community energy.

Recommended:

1. That the correspondence be noted; and
2. That it be delegated to the Leader of the Council, the Chair of the Committee, and the Deputy Leader to prepare a response on behalf of the Town Council.