James Evans has urged residents to make their voices heard as public consultation opens on controversial plans for a large-scale wind farm east of Builth Wells.

Mr Evans, who represents Brecon and Radnorshire, is encouraging people to attend drop-in events this month and submit feedback on the Aberedw Energy Park proposals - which include 18 turbines up to 200 metres tall.

The proposals, being brought forward by developer Bute Energy, form part of the company’s contribution to the Welsh Government’s net-zero targets. If approved, the site on Aberedw Hill could generate up to 120 megawatts of electricity – enough to power between 86,000 and 113,000 homes.

But Mr Evans has described the plans as “clear exploitation” of the local countryside and warned that the turbines would “overwhelm” the rural landscape.

“This is my home, your home, and I will do everything I can to protect it from this exploitation by commercial companies interested only in profit,” he said.

He stressed that while the current consultation – which runs until August 18 – is an important opportunity to raise concerns, formal objections would carry most weight during the statutory planning stage, once the application is submitted to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW).

“We don’t know exactly when that will be, but when it does, there will be a short five-week window for responses,” he said. “That is the critical time to submit your comments and concerns if these proposals are to be stopped.”

In the meantime, Bute Energy is holding two public drop-in sessions where residents can view the latest proposals and speak with project staff:

• Hundred House Village Hall, Wednesday, July 16, 2pm–7pm

• Aberedw Church Hall, Thursday, July 17, 2pm–7pm

People can also submit feedback online, by post, or by email. More details are available at: https://bute.energy/aberedw/overview/consultation/

Bute Energy says the site was chosen for its wind speeds and “technical and environmental suitability”, and that habitat management areas would be included to boost biodiversity.

The site will have access tracks, an electrical substation, and temporary construction storage compounds

The scheme is classed as a Development of National Significance, meaning the final decision will be made by Welsh Ministers.

However, campaigners and local opponents fear the visual impact of the 200m-tall turbines, and the risk to wildlife, including peat habitats and species such as curlew. Mr Evans said the development could also threaten the area’s tourism economy.

“I am not against renewable energy – we need a mix of energy sources," he said.

"But the proliferation of turbines in our countryside will deter tourists, putting jobs at risk and the viability of many local businesses like our local pubs, shops and accommodation providers. Taken together, these plans will overwhelm our area and risk industrialising our countryside."

The timeline published on Bute Energy’s website indicates that a formal planning application for the Aberedw Energy Park is expected to be submitted in winter 2025, with a final decision by Welsh Ministers anticipated by autumn 2026.