Wrexham firm tackles ministers over way of generating ‘greener’ power

A COMPANY is at the cutting edge of the drive towards a “greener” economy and creating new jobs.

Bosses at Sharp in Llay are currently in talks with the UK Government on the wider use of energy-saving power systems, which would radically reduce Britain’s carbon footprint.

As a pioneer in the manufacture and supply of solar panels for the generation of electricity, the factory has just hosted a high-level visit by the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Ed Miliband.

And a top Sharp executive has revealed that the company is now in discussions with Mr Miliband’s departmental colleague, Wrexham MP Ian Lucas, in his role as Under Secretary of State for Business and Regulatory Reform.Steve Crewe, Sharp’s human resources and general affairs manager, said: “The tariff system, which means that excess electricity generated by domestic solar panels is sold on to utility providers, is now in general use in a number of countries across Europe.

“Here at the Wrexham factory we build solar module panels and 95 per cent of what we produce is sold to continental Europe.

“However, there is an untapped market for panels in the UK and, hopefully, we could be at the cutting edge of filling that.”He added: “Sharp has had meetings with Mr Lucas to talk about developing this energy policy.”

Mr Lucas, who accompanied Mr Miliband on the visit to Sharp, said that one of the issues discussed was the Government’s publication of its low carbon industrial strategy.

The Under Secretary has pledged to work with Sharp and other companies to ensure that they can make the most of the opportunities the strategy provides.

He explained: “Helping the UK make the transition to a low-carbon economy really will provide real opportunities for businesses.

“The proof is right here in north east Wales, at companies such as Sharp.“I was among those who pushed to secure a PV cells production plant in Llay several years ago.

“In 2004, that plant had 400 workers – this year, the figure has doubled to 800. The factory is now one of the largest private sector employers in Wrexham. On Deeside, Toyota have secured jobs by working to produce new, greener cars.”

Mr Lucas added: “The Government’s low carbon industrial strategy will help cut carbon emissions and tackle climate change. But it will also secure and create jobs in producing and developing new technologies.

“It is hugely important we invest in these new technologies now – so we can work towards a greener future and so we can make sure we make the most of the new employment opportunities these new industries provide.”