The first UK commercial-scale wind energy scheme
The first commercial-scale wind energy scheme to be delivered in conjunction with a Welsh local authority was opened in June. Located on a brownfield site that was formerly a coal mine, the 4 MW development is a collaboration between developer Partnerships for Renewables and Caerphilly County Borough Council. Two turbines will generate approximately 10 GWh per year.
The development is on reclaimed land on Oakdale Business Park in Caerphilly, South Wales. The 400-acre site was formerly the location of Oakdale Colliery, which in its heyday employed almost 2,000 people. After 81 years in operation, and a declining coal industry in Wales, the colliery closed in 1989.
The energy produced by the turbines is currently being fed directly into the National Grid, but discussions are ongoing regarding the possibility of installing a private wire to neighbouring large energy users, either in the existing business park or businesses newly locating to the area.
In addition to the rent paid to the council for use of the site, Partnerships for Renewables will provide a community benefit package of £10,000 per year to fund projects that will have a social, economic or environmental benefit.
