The following point has subsequently been added.

Additional comment We understand that a limit of 5MW has now been proposed for small projects outside the Strategic Areas. There are many projects already in the planning process in Wales that are above 5MW and are located outside the Strategic Areas. Many of these were proposed before the consultation document was published. Wind energy developers have already spent millions of pounds on these planning applications and it is essential that this investment is not thrown away as a result of retrospective policy making. A clear statement is required on the legal status of these projects. It is essential that these projects are not prejudiced by this consultation. Banks are already have the view that investment in renewable energy carries a high level of regulatory risk. If previous investment is allowed to be undermined in this way, the Welsh Assembly would be guilty of compounding this view.