Subject: Proposed Wind Farm
From: Rob.Tate@westcoastenergy.co.uk
To: ericmitchell@compuserve.com
Sent: Monday, February 05, 2001 10:30 AM
Dear Eric
Further to our conversation in The Bradworthy Inn, a couple of weeks ago, I thought I would drop you a line to provide you with more information on the proposed wind farm at Stowford Cross.
The proposed scheme would involve the erection of 3 wind turbines each with a tubular steel tower approximately 48 metres high supporting a three bladed rotor approximately 54 metres in diameter. Accordingly, the total blade tip height of each machine would be approximately 75 metres.
As you are probably aware the UK Government has pledged to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 20% and to meet 10% of our electricity needs from renewable sources by the year 2010. Currently, around 2.5% of the UK's electricity needs are met from "renewable energy sources" the vast majority of which is produced by large scale hydro projects. Wind energy contributes 2.6% of renewable energy supply or 0.3% (982GWh) of the total UK electricity supply. Wind energy is therefore likely to play a major role in achieving these targets. The proposed wind farm at Bradworthy would generate up to 3,000 kilowatts (3.0 Megawatts) of electricity, enough to supply the annual domestic needs of around 1,900 homes. Moreover, it is estimated that the wind farm would displace around 6,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide during each year of its operational life which would otherwise have been produced by a power station burning fossil fuel. In addition the proposed scheme would offer the opportunity for agricultural diversification for a local farmer.
The Company recognises the sensitive nature of this form of development and wishes to undertake a full and detailed consultation with the local community in order to produce an acceptable scheme. As part of this process, we would propose to undertake a full Environmental Impact Assessment to consider the effects of the development on the local environment. This would accompany any future planning application submitted to Torridge District Council.
I hope this information is of assistance and look forward to meeting you again in the near future.
Regards, Rob
West Coast Energy Ltd, The Long Barn, Waen Farm, Nercwys Road, Mold, Flintshire CH7 4ED, Tel: 01352 757604