This in on behalf of Iain McKie, Ed
UKIP Isle of Wight Parliamentary Candidate Iain McKie has spoken out in opposition to the proposed Perpetuus Tidal Energy Centre on the Island.
Speaking before the Hands of Our Coastal Heritage as guest speaker, McKie offered his expertise, with eight years experience at Director-level in the international climate and renewable energy business.
The project has been overtly backed by MP Andrew Turner, who applauded its implementation in the House of Commons. It has also received the tacit approval of the Council, until recently helmed by Independent Parliamentary Candidate, Ian Stephens.
Decision-makers “lack experience”
Highlighting the comparative inexperience of senior decision maker’s greenlighting the centre, McKie states,
“The last time I looked, there were no specialists on the Council with experience in the climate and energy business. The company behind the project does not appear to have any experience in either the UN’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) or its Joint Implementation (JI). These two are the cornerstone of all global renewable energy projects, and are subject to UN approval.
“I am concerned that without proven experience in either CDM or JI, the Perpetuus Tidal Energy Centre may not necessarily have the right skills available.”
“Woefully inadequate” consultation
McKie also questioned the sustainability of the project, suggesting there had been no consideration taken for the C02 and CH4 emissions caused by unnatural disruptions to the water, or the potential for economic damage to the local inshore fishing business.
He highlighted local fears that the project may go ahead regardless of the opinions of Island residents, following a “woefully inadequate” consultation.
“Some residents fear that the installations will damage their views, and will doubtless find themselves accused of pettiness. To that I say, if you want to know what a view is worth, ask an estate agent. Then consider the amount of money being removed from the value of your property, and ask yourself how you would feel.”
Image: © Used with permission of Jason Swain Photography
