With events in Japan bringing the long term implications of energy policy into sharp focus, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, the Rt Hon Chris Huhne MP will today [Thursday] deliver the CPRE Annual Lecture.  The Minister will consider the impact of new energy infrastructure on the beauty and tranquillity of the countryside. 

This is the first time an Energy Secretary has publicly addressed the landscape implications of new energy infrastructure, including onshore wind farms.  

The lecture is taking place at 1.30pm Thursday 24 March 2011 at The Science Museum, London SW7 2DD.  It will be followed by a panel debate and an opportunity to question the Secretary of State and panel members.

Shaun Spiers, CPRE Chief Executive, says: “The debate on energy has so far focused too narrowly on carbon targets and costs, overlooking the implications of new energy infrastructure for our landscape and land use. 

“The decisions we make on energy now will have a big impact on the character of our landscape for decades to come.  While it is critical the UK meets its carbon targets, we must choose a mix of low carbon and renewable energy generation methods that safeguards the countryside that people love.  There is no need to trash the landscape in order to tackle climate change.   

“I am delighted that Chris Huhne has agreed to address these difficult issues before a CPRE audience.” [1]

If members of the media would like to attend the lecture or pre-arrange interviews with the any of the panellists, please contact the CPRE press office.

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Notes to Editors
Link to DECC blog with 2050 debate: http://blog.decc.gov.uk/?p=301, highlighting one way in which we could cut our carbon while protecting landscapes.