Samuel Kurtz, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, delivered the closing address at the Empower Cymru 2025 conference this week.
The event, held at Techniquest in Cardiff, brought together industry professionals from wind and solar energy, oil and gas, education providers, and other key stakeholders to discuss the future of Wales' energy sector.
Closing the conference, the Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Energy highlighted the prosperity that energy production can bring to communities that have long felt left behind.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for pragmatic policies that encourage investment in renewable energy, including hydrogen production and carbon captur, while being realistic about Wales’ need for oil and gas for the foreseeable future.
Speaking after the event, he said:
“It was fantastic to see so many people from across the energy sector come together to discuss Wales' future. We have talked at length about our country's incredible potential for renewables, thanks in part to our extensive coastline and access to the Celtic Sea, but now is the time for action.
“If we can demonstrate that Wales is open for business, we can attract investment in infrastructure and education, ensuring secure energy supplies, creating green jobs, and generating prosperity for our local communities.
“For too long, industrial decline has led to fewer job opportunities and economic stagnation in parts of Wales. By embracing energy production, we have the chance to reverse that trend, revitalise our economy, and safeguard our economic and energy security during these turbulent times.”
