Energy Minister to Open Renewable Energy Conference in Lincolnshire, UK

The Government’s energy minister has been confirmed as the keynote speaker at a major renewables conference in Lincolnshire.

John Hayes will open Green Energy Lincs, which will be attended by industry leaders and business people.

The event, on Tuesday, November 20, aims to help local companies benefit from the emerging renewable energy sector and show how Lincolnshire is well placed to take advantage of the latest developments.

The Conservative MP will join a string of expert speakers, who will explain the vital role green technologies are set to play for families and businesses.

Mr Hayes, who was appointed as energy minister in September, represents South Holland and the Deepings.

Green Energy Lincs will take place at the EPIC Centre at Lincolnshire Showground.

Andrew Morton, account director at event organiser Footprint Renewables, said: “For Mr Hayes to agree to make the keynote speech at the conference so soon after being appointed demonstrates just how important Lincolnshire and the county’s role in renewable energy is seen by Government.

“Indeed, we’re delighted to be welcoming the minister to Green Energy Lincs.

“His speech will be one of many that will showcase how people and businesses in Lincolnshire can benefit from renewables.”

Confirmation of Mr Hayes’s attendance comes as the Government works on its forthcoming Energy Bill, which will contain details about the level of state support for energy sources, including wind and nuclear.

Lincolnshire has a growing role in keeping the UK’s lights on in the most cost-effective and green way – from farms installing wind turbines and solar panels to local engineering firms supplying global energy companies with hi-tech materials.

The aim of Green Energy Lincs is to help individuals and organisations gain a better awareness of how they, and the county, can be a significant part of this industry.

With a combination of presentations and a trade exhibition, the conference will allow people to discover how their business could secure a lucrative place in the renewables supply chain or actually generate power on site, helping to cut bills.

The importance of green technology in Lincolnshire is rising, with more than 25 per cent of people in the county already living in fuel poverty.

Mr Morton said: “Lincolnshire’s businesses, communities and other organisations have a great chance to harness the benefits of renewables and the green energy industry.

“This could be through actually generating their own power at their company premises or at their home – cutting both their energy bills and carbon emissions.”

One focus of the conference will be how farms and rural firms can protect themselves against rising energy prices.

Information will also be given on how they can reap the financial benefits of green investments.

Mr Morton said there were opportunities for Lincolnshire enterprises to play a key part in the industry’s supply chain.

He explained this included every type of company, from construction firms and engineers, to lawyers, accountants and training providers.

“Renewables is a global, growing, industry and it requires businesses that are committed and fully aware of its exciting opportunities,” he said.

The event will explore the impact of Lincolnshire’s position within driving distance of the Humber’s ports, which are set to become a European hub for renewable energy technology – particularly offshore wind power.

Green Energy Lincs take places between 8.30am and 2pm on November 20.

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Press release, October 12, 2012; Image: footprintrenewables