Gartree Wind Farm Public Exhibitions
As a nation and as communities, we face the challenges of climate change, energy insecurity and the depletion and increased price of fossil fuels. In response to these challenges a co-operatively-owned wind farm on land to the west of Market Harborough is being developed by Energy4All, the UK's leading social enterprise promoting community ownership of renewable energy, in partnership with the local community and landowner.
The Gartree Wind Power Co-operative is now registered with the Financial Services Authority. Once planning permission is received it will offer the opportunity for members of the public to purchase a stake in the project, and so receive an annual dividend from net operating profits. The project will also provide a fund for use by the local community for energy efficiency and climate change awareness projects.
The wind farm will consist of 3 wind turbines with a total installed capacity of up to 7.5MW. All the necessary site assessment work has now been completed and a planning application and accompanying environmental statement are now being finalised.
Energy4All will be holding two public exhibitions. At these drop in sessions, you will be able to find out more about the proposed project and the co-operative. A team will be on hand to answer your questions. You will also be able to register your in supporting the project by getting involved in the co-op.
John Malone, the Project Director from Energy4All commented: Community-based and community-owned wind farms have a part to play in the transition to obtaining our energy without critically damaging our planet. But I do know that people have mixed views on wind farms, and I hope many will come to the exhibition to see for themselves what we are doing, how we will address major concerns, and, I hope, choose to become involved with us.
The exhibitions will be as follows:
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Lubenham: Tuesday 7th July, Lubenham Village Hall, 3pm - 8pm
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Market Harborough, Wednesday 8th July, Theatre Lounge, Church Square 3pm - 8pm
For more information contact Energy4All on 0845 373 3612 (local rate) or go to www.energy4all.co.uk.
