Boddington Reservoir Wind Energy Investigation –Reduction in Turbine Numbers Announced

Published: 26/08/2010

Partnerships for Renewables has reduced the number of wind turbines it is investigating at a site near Boddington Reservoir from three turbines to one. Ongoing investigations will now focus on a potential single turbine wind energy project, with any proposed turbine likely to be close to the location of the existing wind monitoring mast north of the reservoir.

The company, which is working in partnership with British Waterways to develop the site, made the announcement following a review of the various technical and environmental studies which have been undertaken at the site including an assessment of the level of wind and connectivity to the National Grid. 

Tony Duffin, Regional Manager for Partnerships for Renewables, said:

“After consulting with the operator of the local electricity distribution network, it was confirmed that the costs associated with connecting to the national grid would not be prohibitive for a single turbine site, which has enabled us to take this decision. 

“As a responsible developer our site design is driven by environmental and technical factors and we are committed to developing renewable energy projects that are sensitive to both communities and local habitats.

 “On balance, having now completed many of our studies at the site, we have taken the view that a single turbine development would be best suited to the location.”

Partnerships for Renewables hopes to submit a planning application for the single 1.5 megawatt wind turbine to Daventry District Council before the end of 2010, with estimates that the turbine could produce electricity equivalent to that required to power more than 700 homes. The turbine will have a maximum tip height of 125 metres (the combined height of the tower and blades). Further information is required before the model of turbine is finally established.

Richard Mercer from British Waterways reflected on the decision, stating that:

 “British Waterways and PfR are committed to responsible development. Whilst a larger development could have brought added benefit it is important that the design is driven by environmental and technical factors. The decision to focus on a single turbine site is a positive one and a single turbine would still amount to a significant contribution in the fight against climate change.”

Partnerships for Renewables will present its revised proposals to the community during future Public Exhibitions, the dates of which will be announced as soon as all investigations have been finalised.

Tony Duffin of PfR added: “I would imagine that the local community are likely to have many questions about our revised plans for the site and would encourage anyone who would like to find out more to contact us or visit one of our ‘drop-in’ community surgeries. The next session will take place between 10am and 7pm in Byfield Village Hall on Tuesday the 21st of September.

For further information on the project contact Partnerships for Renewables by phone on 0800 7317395 or via email at pfr@communityrelations.co.uk.

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