The windfarm in Longhirst: Benefits ?

Benefits? Probably not the correct word.

But, what can we get out of having a windfarm in Longhirst?

It is quite interesting to see, what RES-Ltd have offered in the past (http://www.roos-windfarm.co.uk/index.asp?pageName=benefits):

  • Community fund of at least £1,000 per MW per year
  • Preference to use local contractors and maintenance staff
  • Potential for local community ownership / electricity savings
  • Local environmental enhancements
  • Other options to be discussed with local people

Gill Featonby has made suggestions about improving access for horse riders, walkers and cyclists (see access).

Novera Energy state following benefits:

The local economy is also set to benefit from the Longhirst Wind Farm. The project will generate:

  • significant contracts for construction, services and materials.
  • Novera intends to invite local businesses to tender for these contracts.
  • Additional indirect expenditure in local shops, service stations and accommodation is also expected.
  • Novera Energy has a policy to utilise, when practicable, local contractors for construction, operation and maintenance work. Up to approximately 50 personnel will be directly employed during the construction period.
  • Once operational, an engineer will be required to undertake site supervision and maintenance.
  • Furthermore, a community trust fund of £2,000 per MW of installed capacity is proposed by Novera Energy. This fund will be managed locally to benefit local communities and community projects, and will result in up to £30,000 per year being invested locally and over £750,000 during the life of the wind farm.