Business
Investment in energy efficiency safeguards hundreds of jobs
AT LEAST 1,500 private sector jobs have been safeguarded in Wales thanks to and investment for energy efficiency, with an additional 30 roles being created, the Welsh Government has claimed.
The figures were revealed on last Monday by the Carbon Trust, following a survey of the businesses that have directly received support from the organisation over the past year. Research undertaken by the Carbon Trust’s Wales office, which is funded by the Welsh Government to support businesses and the public sector with energy efficiency, shows that investment of just £2.5 million has led to the implementation of energy efficiency measures with over £116 million of lifetime financial savings for Welsh organisations in the past year. This takes the tally of financial savings achieved thanks to work delivered by the Carbon Trust in Wales to over £719 million, at the same time as helping to cut 9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. The greatest benefits have been delivered in the industrial heartland of South Wales, where there are a number businesses in sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, aviation and bio-technology. The organisations supported include some of the largest private sector employers in Wales, Tata Steel, GE Aviation Wales, Celtic Manor Resort, the venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup, and Princes Gate. Endaf Edwards, Operations Director at Princes Gate, said: “Working with Carbon Trust Wales has given us the support we needed to make big savings. The team helped us to identify where improvements could be made and gave us some excellent advice in moving things forward. In addition to safeguarding jobs, the savings we made allowed us to create five new roles for local people. “We’re really proud of our green credentials; we’re in no way environmental activists, but we recognise the need for sustainable manufacturing to ensure future economic viability and to secure our position in the market.” Mike Batt, General Manager of the Carbon Trust’s Wales office, said: “We know that supporting energy efficiency is one of the best ways to provide a boost to the Welsh economy and make it a more attractive place to do business. Continuing investment by the Welsh Government into energy efficiency and cutting carbon has delivered a number of lasting benefits, with a value and an impact that far outstrips the cost. “Over the years we have worked with hundreds of businesses in Wales, helping them to become more competitive, both nationally and internationally, whilst creating new employment opportunities and securing highly skilled jobs.”
Business
Thousands of homes in rural Wales gain from faster 4G boost
RURAL Wales is seeing a major upgrade in mobile connectivity, with faster 4G now live in several areas. Seven locations across North, South West, and West Wales are benefitting from new 4G mast upgrades funded by the UK Government’s Shared Rural Network (SRN), aimed at closing the digital gap between rural and urban areas.
The upgrades, which went live on Thursday (Nov 14), bring improved 4G coverage to communities including Bontddu, Llanelltyd, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog, Penmaenpool, Tabor, Snowdonia National Park, and Bontgoch. Local businesses, emergency services, and residents are expected to benefit from faster internet access, which supports daily communication, business opportunities, and economic growth.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Fast, reliable connectivity is essential for modern life and should be available from Cardiff to the remotest parts of Wales. Today’s upgrades bring us closer to making this a reality.”
SUPPORTING DIGITAL INCLUSION
As part of the rollout, Peter Kyle and Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant visited Ebbw Vale to discuss digital inclusion with charity and industry leaders. They met with representatives at BGfm, a digital inclusion hub in Blaenau Gwent, to learn about how connectivity impacts daily life in Welsh communities.
Telecoms Minister Bryant said: “We are working tirelessly to make sure rural communities aren’t left behind online.
“These upgrades mean businesses can now operate without connectivity limitations, 999 services are better equipped to respond, and residents and tourists can stay connected across the Welsh countryside.”
ADDRESSING CONNECTIVITY GAPS
An estimated 1.5 million homes across the UK remain without internet access, limiting people’s ability to access essential services such as banking and healthcare. In addition to the SRN upgrades, the Chancellor has allocated over £500 million in next year’s budget for digital infrastructure expansion, targeting these underserved areas.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens highlighted the importance of this investment, particularly for rural Wales, where fast, reliable internet can be transformative.
“Connectivity is critical for day-to-day life in rural areas – from supporting local businesses to ensuring emergency services are just a call away,” Stevens said.
The upgraded masts, previously limited to EE customers and emergency 999 calls, now serve a wider user base, bringing essential internet access to more people without requiring new infrastructure.
Ben Roome, CEO of Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited, said: “With the activation of five new SRN sites, Wales is seeing the tangible benefits of the Shared Rural Network, bringing crucial connectivity to rural communities.”
GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT IN REMOTE WALES
The improvements come alongside a £170 million agreement with Openreach to provide gigabit-capable broadband to 70,000 remote Welsh properties, helping future-proof digital access in even the most isolated locations.
The latest upgrades mark another step in the Government’s mission to improve mobile coverage and close the connectivity gap across Wales, creating opportunities and supporting economic growth across rural communities.
Business
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority invites businesses to advertise in mag
As 2024 comes to a close, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is encouraging local businesses to prepare for the year ahead by reserving advertising space in Coast to Coast, Pembrokeshire’s highly regarded, award-winning visitor magazine.
Launching its 43rd edition in Easter 2025, Coast to Coast provides a prime opportunity for businesses to reach a wide audience, with a readership exceeding one million people.
The bilingual publication, distributed across Pembrokeshire’s busiest locations and parts of Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion during peak tourism months, is a valuable resource for both visitors and residents. From unique products and delicious offerings to exciting experiences, businesses of all types can benefit from the exposure Coast to Coast offers. The magazine is available in hundreds of outlets countywide and has become an essential guide for anyone looking to explore the best of Pembrokeshire.
“Over the years, Coast to Coast has established itself as the must-have summer guide, packed with inspiration for exploring the Park,” said Marie Parkin, Head of Marketing and Communications for the Authority. “In addition to showcasing our visitor attractions such as Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, Castell Henllys Iron Age Village and Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre, the magazine includes practical information like maps, bus schedules and tide tables.”
“From scenic walks and beach days to rich insights into the Park’s heritage, culture, and wildlife, Coast to Coast offers something for everyone. Our Activities and Events listings ensure families can enjoy a full calendar of experiences,” Marie Parkin added.
With advertising deadlines set for early January 2025, businesses are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their spot and avoid disappointment.
For more information about advertising in Coast to Coast, please contact [email protected] or call 01646 624895.
Business
Kurtz addresses Employment and Skills Convention
SENEDD Member Samuel Kurtz kicked off an Employment and Skills Convention at the Cardiff City Stadium recently, organised by the Learning and Skills Institute. The event sought to unite organisations, businesses, and training providers to discuss critical issues surrounding employment and skills development across Wales.
The convention featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including local Samuel Kurtz MS, who is the Shadow Minister for the Economy and Energy; Rhys Morris, Managing Director of The Busy Group; and Megan Hooper, Director for Employment and Skills at Serco. Together, they explored strategies for increasing employment and the positive impacts this can have on individuals, young people, and the broader community.
Following the event, Samuel Kurtz said: “It was a privilege to speak at this convention and to underscore the vital role of collaboration between government and the private sector in aligning skills and training with the evolving needs of our economy.
“By enhancing skills and creating jobs, we can foster a resilient workforce that will not only meet today’s demands but also drive essential green infrastructure projects, ensuring a prosperous future for young people in Wales.
“Welsh Government Ministers must acknowledge their role in addressing high levels of economic inactivity. Introducing employment targets is essential to support people in re-entering the workforce and contributing to Wales’ economic growth.”
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