Agenda and minutes

Mrs P Stockell proposed, Mr C Hibberd seconded that Mr K A Ferrin be elected Chairman of this Select Committee.

Agreed without a vote

(1)               The Chairman asked officers to introduce themselves to the Select Committee Members.

(2)               The Chairman then asked Sue Frampton, Research officer to introduce the proposed scope of the Review.  Sue highlighted key aspects of the Scope in particular paragraph 3 ‘To identify key challenges’ suggesting that this was the biggest part of the review covering a range of challenges and opportunities for KCC to influence and develop leadership.

(3)               Sue Frampton advised the Members that she had been in contact with Amy Wright, a member of KYCC from Thanet who was very keen to participate in the review. Members were in favour of Amy’s involvement on behalf of KYCC, as far as possible, including hearings and visits, with consideration to her school commitments.

(4)               Sue Frampton also informed the committee that there may be an opportunity for some joint work with Essex County Council who are conducting a review of the generation of energy and Mr Ferrin agreed to look at this further on 11^th February.

(5)               Members were then given the opportunity to ask questions and make comments on the Terms of Reference and the Proposed Scope of the Review. Discussion included:

·        that there should be more emphasis on ‘Energy Efficiency’ within the Terms of Reference, as it will affect the baseline requirements. KCC should be leading on Energy Efficiency as the Strategic Authority for Kent and residents need to be able to receive guidance from KCC. (Members were advised that work was being carried out on KCC education estates regarding energy efficiency therefore this should not be duplicated by the Review but the work being undertaken could inform the report).

·        establish existing energy patterns.

·        Winter/Summer balance (energy requirements)

·        the effect of taking energy to the consumer from its source.

·        where Kent sits in the context of Europe – could import all energy requirements from Europe?

·        the Energy Bill currently going through Parliament

·        Medway as part of geographical Kent and its gas importation terminal

·        tidal systems – potential for the future in Kent?

·        Lack of experienced technicians and experts (covered by KEB task and finish group? – evidence will be requested)

(6)               Following their discussion Members agreed the following changes to the Terms of Reference;

(a)               In paragraph 2 after the word ‘generation’ add the words ‘and distribution’,

(b)               In paragraph 3 (b)  after the word ‘Kent’ alter the remainder of the sentence to read ‘and it’s residents in relation to energy efficiency and renewable energy, and

(c)               In paragraph 5 after the word ‘increased’ add the words ’energy efficiency’; and the following changes to the scope,

(7)               It will be necessary to read a lot of evidence before a clear vision is reached on the direction KCC wants to take and we should not be confined by a definitive list now (witnesses/visits). The need for particular witnesses or visits may emerge as the work progresses.

(8)               The wish was expressed that the review recommendations are such that there could be  ...  view the full minutes text for item 2.