Archived press release

Welsh Community Welcomes Europe's Largest Windfarm

23 October 1996

The strong support for this development shows that the public recognise the value of renewable energy, and want to see the development of wind power in Wales. National Power's Chief Executive, Keith Henry, was present today to open the development [4].

This major windfarm paves the way for the large scale development of wind power, and illustrates how the UK can realise the potential of renewable energy. Carno windfarm will directly displace greenhouse gas emissions and sulphur emissions resulting from fossil-fuel based energy production, which contribute to global climate change and acid rain [5]. Wind power not only offers solutions to major environmental problems, but also offers employment opportunities. Estimates suggest that the UK has the potential to create up to 10,300 additional jobs through the development of onshore wind power [6].

Tricia Allen, Energy Campaigner for Friends of the Earth said:

"It's good to see major companies such as National Power promoting renewable technologies such as wind energy. It makes good business, as well as environmental, sense for major generators to start investing in renewable technologies. We are pleased to see that the misinformation frequently circulated by Country Guardian and others has failed to halt this significant development."

Wind is just one of several sources of renewable energy which Britain has the potential to deliver. In the run up to liberalisation of the electricity market in Britain in April 1998, the potential consumer demand for green energy will require a huge investment in the development of a range of renewable technologies.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

[1] The site now has the capacity to generate a combined power of 33.6 megawatts from fifty-six turbines, enough electricity to meet the needs of 25,000 homes. This represents 15% of the total consumption of Powys county.

[2] When Carno windfarm was submitted for planning permission, it received unanimous approval in April 1994. A public opinion survey carried out in the county by the Department of Trade and Industry showed that 86% of the public were in favour of wind power. A further survey carried out by the Countryside Council for Wales showed that 83% of the public supported wind power.

[3] 'Planning for Wind Power - Guidelines for Project Developers and Local Planners' - Friends of the Earth, 1995 (second edition).

[4] National Power's subsidiary, National Wind Power, are the developers for Carno windfarm.

[5] Carno windfarm will displace 1.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, 6,650 tonnes of sulphur oxides, and 1,750 tonnes of nitrogen oxides that would arise from a conventional coal fired power station.

[6] 'Working Future? - Jobs and the Environment' - Research report from Friends of the Earth 1994.

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