Majority support for onshore wind in Talybont area

In our latest community survey, 61% of respondents expressed neutral to positive views about Wales leading the way in onshore wind development by people living and work around Talybont in Ceredigion. For many, the benefits of clean energy, new jobs, and investment in local initiatives stood out clearly.

Through our engagement on the Give My View platform, more than 600 people shared their thoughts on Waun Hesgog Energy Park and our proposed £1.8 million annual community benefit fund.

A key theme that emerged was the need to improve transport infrastructure across Ceredigion, with residents noting how challenging public transport inland from the coast can be. Others spoke passionately about creating better opportunities for young people, preserving local heritage, and supporting small businesses.

Over the lifetime of the project, our Community Benefit Fund will total £72 million, empowering residents to make decisions on where the money is invested. This could mean funding youth services, restoring historic sites, or even helping to complete long-awaited projects — like a footpath between Ffwrnes and Eglwys Fach.

A shared vision for Wales’ clean energy future

As our Community Investment and Communications Director Catryn Newton put it:

“The opportunity for Wales and communities like Talybont is clear. In the decade ahead, the planned investment in renewable energy could kickstart a thriving new industry backed by home-grown Welsh business and talent, powering resilient local communities. We need the same ambition and conviction from decision makers as we see from communities the length and breadth of Wales.”

Next steps

The feedback gathered will help us refine our early proposals for Waun Hesgog Energy Park. A formal statutory consultation will take place next year, and we’ll continue engaging with residents every step of the way.

Our commitment remains the same: to work in partnership with local communities, ensuring that the benefits of clean energy reach everyone – not just in Talybont, but across Wales.