Wiltshire Wind Energy update
Wiltshire Wind Energy update
03•01•2010Thank you to all the members of the group in 2009, it has been an exciting time!
During 2008 and early 2009 much of our work was concentrated on planning and making contact with other community and environmental groups. As we hoped, the latter part of 2009 has involved talking to groups, schools, and individuals (often farmers) about specific wind power schemes.
We are now making a real difference and offering help to a number of potential projects. Unsurprisingly most organisations and individuals want to get there plans well thought out before going public, so it is difficult to provide details now. During 2010 we expect that some of these projects will come to fruition – we are hopeful that 2010 will be a period when projects ‘go public’, and hopefully progress to planning – so watch this space!
2010 may be a tipping point. The introduction of the ‘feed-in tariff’ (guaranteed payments for renewable energy production) may kick start wind power – we know of at least two farmers in Wiltshire who are interested because of the better financial returns. We can expect quite a few ‘agricultural’ mid-sized turbines in the next couple of years.
In 2010 we expect that we will be asked to support planning applications. Until now the work in the group has been ‘technical’. In 2010 this balance may change – letter writing, campaigning, talks and banner waving may be the order of the day! So even if you have felt that you could not contribute much before, this is changing – so get involved.
Many thanks to the ‘Site Champions’ who have worked hard to identify opportunities in specific locations in Wiltshire, sent out letters, taken photos of sites and met landowners. Whilst some sites have fallen by the wayside a number are now looking very positive, so well done! Our information is now of interest to other public organisations – which is a credit to all the members of the group. Our brief talk at the RegenSW (the renewable energy agency in the south west) conference in November was well received, further raising our profile.
Please keep in touch in 2010 – and get involved. We want to know how you see the group developing, so why not let us know! Please take a chance to look at the news page of the website at www.wiltshirewind.org.uk/news.htm
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year
All at Wiltshire Community Wind Energy
