Agenda and minutes

Mr Smith proposed and Mrs Rowbotham seconded that Mr Wedgbury be elected Chairman of the Select Committee.

RESOLVED that Mr Wedgbury be elected Chairman of the Committee.

(1)          The Chairman introduced the report on the draft terms of reference, scope and general approach for the Review.  Also set out in the report was the proposed timetable based on the Select Committee report being submitted to County Council in May 2016 and suggested visits and witnesses for evidence gathering sessions.  The Chairman emphasised the importance of keeping the scope of the review tight and focused.

(2)          The Committee discussed the report and made a number of points and suggestions which included the following:

·         The importance of avoiding duplicating the work of the previous Select Committee’s on Renewable Energy and Climate Change was emphasised, there was a need for the new Select Committee to have its own focus.

·         Where possible to take account of new developments in green technologies, including those which may not have previously been considered viable options.

·         The view was expressed that the Committee should not avoid looking at controversial areas such as fracking and nuclear energy.

·         The importance of energy sources being sustainable was emphasised.

·         Reference was made to the combined heat and power distribution systems used in some German and Austrian towns.

·         A site visit to Allington Integrated Waste Management was suggested.

·         Information should be obtained for the Committee on Pines Calyx Conference Facility, Dover.

(3)          Mr Price referred to an offer by the London Borough of Islington to host a visit for up to 3 Members on 4 November. 

(4)       RESOLVED that:

a)    the terms of reference and general approach to the Review as set out in the report be approved (copy of the terms of reference will be attached as an appendix to the minutes).

b)    Mr Whybrow be appointed as a non-voting co-optee.

c)    the visit to Dungeness B nuclear power plant be held on Monday 14 December at 10.00am and if possible a visit to Little Cheyne Farm be arranged for the afternoon. 

APPENDIX

Select Committee – Energy Security

Terms of Reference

1.         To clarify the meaning of “Energy Security” and the responsibilities of KCC in ensuring this security.

2. To examine and assess a range of energy generation methods so as to best secure the future energy needs of Kent.

3. To identify existing best practice across the UK and abroad on how best to strengthena sustainable, reliable energy infrastructure for Kent.

4. For the Energy Security Select Committee to make recommendations after having gathered evidence and information throughout the review.