Power from Exmoor's rivers and streams: Stream owners lead the way
Exmoor National Park Authority paid for experts to set up local stream owners as their own constituted Hydro-Group (Exmoor Renewable Energy Group (EREG)) and then helped secure a £50k award from a utility company, EDF Energy’s Green Fund, to help EREG tap into stream power.
These local stream owners (EREG) now aim to help inspire and install renewable energy using the power of water. Once completely up and running it is expected that four of the sites owned by EREG members will generate 220,000KWh, which is enough to power 50 local homes and reduce carbon emission by about 100 tonnes.
The first four micro hydro-electric turbines being installed are:
- Parracombe Mill, in Parracombe – a restored historic mill dating from 1543 with its own working water wheel
- Lee Abbey, in Lynton – a conference, retreat and outdoor centre set on Devon’s north coast
- Holwell Farm, in Parracombe – steeped in history and home to Holwell Castle, a Norman motte and bailey castle
- Cowbridge Sawmill, Minehead – this project will restore a water wheel and power a woodworking museum at the 18th Century mill
It is estimated that there are a further 40 sites on Exmoor that have the potential to generate micro-hydropower, which has huge implications for landowners and the area at large.
The first EREG members are supporting a second wave of projects by providing guidance and project support. Over 20 stream owners are attending the EREG 'Supporting the 2nd Wave' seminar on September 10th.
The first four schemes will be turned into a hydropower trail to stimulate wider interest in green energy. Students from local schools will be encouraged to follow the projects from design to delivery.
Funding for the first stage of the £160,000 project will be provided by EDF Energy, EREG members and the Low Carbon Buildings Programme, who provided £50,000 each, supported by an additional £9,000 from Exmoor National Park Authority.
more information:
Phil Cookson
Sustainability & Economy Manager
Tel: 01398 322235
PNCookson@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
taxi, taxi!
Tourism organisation Visit Exmoor has launched a 3 month advertising campaign in Bristol to encourage people to visit Exmoor, their nearest National Park.
The campaign features advertisements with the strap-line 'If running for the taxi didn’t take your breath away - Visit Exmoor' on the sides of taxis across Bristol
