My Vision For a Decade of Sustainable Growth in Wales

We have set ourselves an ambitious target. By 2035, Wales aims to meet the equivalent of 100% of our annual electricity consumption from renewable sources. Achieving this will not only mark a significant step towards net zero, but also lay the foundations for a more sustainable economy with secure, high-quality jobs. 

Looking ahead 10 years, I hope we will be in a position to say we have met that target. But beyond that, our focus will need to shift to keeping pace with growing energy demand. As we transition away from fossil fuels, electricity consumption will only increase, and we must ensure our infrastructure is ready to meet future needs. 

One of the most exciting developments is the potential of the Celtic Sea to deliver floating offshore wind at scale. I have recently established a task and finish group to bring together key partners – including industry, ports, developers, and skills providers – to ensure Wales is in the strongest possible position to seize this opportunity. By working together, we can build the confidence needed to move at pace and create a thriving sector that benefits Wales for generations to come. 

At the heart of this transition is the need to develop a strong supply chain. The green economy will only fulfil its potential if Wales captures as much value as possible, ensuring skilled jobs and investment remain in Wales rather than flowing elsewhere. Colleges and training providers will play a critical role in preparing the workforce for these emerging industries, ensuring that green jobs are not only sustainable but also high-value and fulfilling careers. 

Two new initiatives are already helping to put Wales at the forefront of the renewable energy transition. Trydan Gwyrdd Cymru, the Welsh Government’s publicly owned energy company, is working to unlock the renewable potential of land in public ownership. Five sites have already been identified for wind energy generation, with the aim of accelerating the process for developers and reducing barriers to investment. By ensuring these projects are ready to go, we can help the industry scale up faster. 

Alongside this, Ynni Cymru is supporting smaller-scale, community-led energy projects. Since its launch in 2023, more than £10 million has been invested in local renewable schemes, from solar panels and battery storage to electric vehicle charging points. These projects bring direct benefits to communities, cutting energy costs by as much as 80% while improving resilience and reducing reliance on external energy supplies. The strong demand for this funding – more than 100 applications were received for the first round – shows the appetite for local energy generation. A further £10 million has now been made available to expand the programme, ensuring that more organisations can benefit. 

The work being done across different scales, from major infrastructure projects to small community initiatives, demonstrates the breadth of opportunity in the green economy. Whether through large-scale offshore wind developments, investment in skills and training, or local energy solutions, Wales is in a strong position to lead the way. 

In ten years’ time, I want to see a Wales where we have met our renewable energy target, where businesses and communities are benefiting from local energy generation, and where green jobs are driving economic growth. By taking the right steps now, we can make that vision a reality.