Renewable Energy Potential of Killington Reservoir Being Investigated

Published: 10/07/2009

British Waterways and Partnerships for Renewables have announced that they are investigating the feasibility of siting renewable energy schemes at Killington Reservoir near Kendal. Although at an early stage, initial studies suggest that up to two wind turbines and one small-scale hydro scheme could be developed with the potential to generate enough green energy for around 2,300 homes*.

Jerry Sturman, Regional Manager for Partnerships for Renewables, said: “Although we are at the early stages of our environmental and technical work, results so far have proved positive. As further studies progress we will build up a detailed understanding of the local environment surrounding the reservoir and assess the suitability of the site to generate much needed green energy. We are committed to only developing renewable energy schemes in appropriate locations and should the results of our work remain positive we could submit a planning application by the end of 2010.

“The aim of this early announcement is to fully involve the community from the outset to ensure that any development incorporates local feedback.”

Richard Mercer, from British Waterways, comments: “200 years after the waterways were built to serve the industrial revolution, it is important that we put them to full use which includes helping to fight the battle against climate change.

“Should the plans at Killington Reservoir go ahead, then all the income that British Waterways generates will be reinvested into the looking after the waterways for the benefit of the environment and local community.”

Partnerships for Renewables was established by the Carbon Trust to work with public sector bodies to develop renewable energy projects which offer benefits to both the organisation in question and the local community. Last year British Waterways announced that they were working with Partnerships for Renewables to develop renewable energy projects on their land to generate green energy and additional revenue to help manage and improve the UK’s waterways.





*Note: The environmental benefit figures are based on two, 2.5 megawatt turbines, operating with a 25% capacity factor; average household electricity use of 4700kWh per annum; and the electricity generated displacing electricity generated from CCGT / average fuel mix - approx. 430gCO2/kWh

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