A central element of these proposals is a commitment to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, a target which goes beyond the UK-wide 2050 target.

To support this ambition, Plaid Cymru (Plaid) intends to develop a comprehensive National Energy Strategy, outlining both current and projected energy demand across Wales and guiding long-term investment in infrastructure and the supply chain.

Alongside this, Plaid proposes a Climate and Nature Action Plan, designed to embed decarbonisation objectives across all areas of government. This approach would align climate goals with energy policy and broader public sector decision-making.

Energy structures and expansion of renewables

The plans see Plaid take an active role in the energy sector, with the proposed expansion of Trydan Gwyrdd Cymru, the publicly owned renewable energy developer established by the Welsh Government in 2024, central to this.

The proposal is to merge Trydan Gwyrdd Cymru with Ynni Cymru and the Welsh Government Energy Service, creating a single national energy company with an enhanced role in developing renewable energy projects.

This expansion will prioritise offshore wind, tidal and hydro power, reflecting what Plaid describes as Wales’ ‘untapped natural potential’. In support of this, a Renewable Energy Sector Deal is proposed to coordinate activity between government, industry, education bodies and the public, while streamlining planning and consent processes. This deal, it is assumed, would build on the sector deal agreed by the former government in March 2026.

The programme also includes the establishment of a national energy body to oversee large-scale developments while supporting smaller, community-led schemes. In parallel, Plaid argues the need for greater control over energy resources.

Community ownership and local benefit

Plaid proposes that all energy projects above 10MW include a requirement for 15% to 25% community ownership, or an equivalent form of local benefit. This is intended to ensure that a meaningful share of financial returns remains within Wales.

They also propose the creation of a Wales Wealth Fund to capture revenue from renewable energy projects and reinvest it into community-led initiatives such as housing and local infrastructure.

Plaid considers that greater control over energy generation and infrastructure would improve system resilience, reduce reliance on external supply and retain economic value within Wales. To support this vision, the programme promotes a decentralised energy system in which communities, businesses and households are enabled to generate, store and sell energy locally.

Towards a more self-sufficient system

The programme set out combines ambitious decarbonisation targets with structural reforms aimed at retaining economic value within Wales and increasing public participation in the energy sector.

Its success will depend on practical considerations, including funding, institutional capacity, and alignment with broader UK energy policy.

Further information

Contact Abbey Bennett

Read more in the blog series:

Senedd Election 2026: where next for planning reform in Wales?

Senedd Election 2026: rental reform in Wales

Senedd Election 2026: New Levers of Power in Welsh Property?