Business rates rise 'a threat to hydro projects'
The future of many community hydro schemes is in jeopardy due to a sharp rise in business rates, operators say.
By Steffan MessengerBBC Wales Environment Correspondent Some have seen increases of as much as 900% after a recent revaluation and the situation has been called "ridiculous". It means virtually all of their profits are being handed over to councils, with some energy schemes now making a loss, BBC Wales has heard. The Welsh Government said it was aware and considering the case for specific assistance. The British Hydropower Association accused ministers of "sitting on their hands" while Community Energy Wales said it was "ripping the guts" out of projects. Community energy schemes are often small enterprises run by volunteers, designed to generate income for their area. But the way business rates are calculated means hydro schemes are hit hard: Business rates in England and Wales are calculated by an independent body - the Valuation Office Agency - but the Welsh Government