Ed Davey hit back at Tory critics of onshore wind farms today as he set out the case for "clean and green" power.
The new Energy and Climate Change Secretary spoke out after more than 100 Conservative MPs broke with government policy to demand a cut in taxpayer subsidies for onshore wind.
The Liberal Democrat defended the "future technology" and warned against making "mistakes of the past".
Starting his first week in the job after Chris Huhne's resignation, he told sceptics the case was "compelling" for investing in the industry.
His response will cheer Liberal Democrats worried Mr Huhne's departure has robbed them of their toughest anti-Conservative voice in Cabinet.
It will also reassure environmental groups that he will continue the defence of climate change priorities pursued by Mr Huhne, who quit on Friday after being charged with perverting the course of justice over claims he used his wife's name to escape speeding points.
"I've been a lifelong supporter of renewable and wind power and I'm not going to change," Mr Davey said during a visit to a green homes site with Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.
"This is the future technology. We don't want to repeat the mistakes of the past where we have polluted our planet, where our country has been dependent on fossil fuel imports, where the price is high and variable."
A total of 106 MPs, including 101 Tories, signed a letter to David Cameron saying it was "unwise" to fund "intermittent energy production that typifies on-shore wind turbines". It called for subsidies to be cut and for new planning rules making it easier for communities to oppose windfarms.
Meanwhile, Mr Huhne's girlfriend, Carina Trimingham, has reportedly been seen wearing an engagement ring. Mr Huhne did not respond to messages about the matter today.
