In a UK first the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership has arranged for a three-month green energy pilot scheme with the installation of two innovative and cost-effective mini wind turbines, one each at Freshlinc in Spalding and at the end of Skegness Pier.
The Spalding turbine has an on-grid power generator system, while the turbine on Skegness Pier is off-grid and will light up the historic seaside attraction at night.
The Partnership was able to bring together Ventum Dynamics with FreshLinc and Mellors Group, which is said to have the potential to start ofrevolutionising how electricity is generated, particularly for businesses with net zero carbon targets and to support clients wanting a greener supply chain.
Throughout the pilot, there will be regular updates on the energy generated and how this is information is being used to inform future design tweaks.
The space efficient wind turbines are quiet in operation, produce minimal vibration and can be easily mounted on rooftops. The turbines are able to capture wind from all directions without turning, making them low maintenance.
The Partnership’s Economic Development team works collaboratively with businesses and partner organisations, including the ukFPN, to find solutions to any barriers to help them succeed.
DSR Energy and Ventum Dynamics have been impressed with the SELCP, the forward thinking approach and attitude to collaborative working with a commitment to achieving a circular economy. They have brought Norwegian technology to Lincolnshire for a three-month pilot to start generating green energy, with a view to the sub region leading the way to roll out these cutting edge turbines.
Cllr Nigel Welton, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economic Development at Boston Borough Council, saw both of Lincolnshire turbines being installed.He said: “There have been many people working hard behind the scenes to bring this to our region and it is fantastic to see them now up and running.
“Businesses are wanting solutions to be more energy efficient and reduce costs so it’s fantastic we have collectively been able to make this happen. I am looking forward to seeing what green projects this will lead to in the future to drive investment, support businesses and growth.”
Cllr Nick Worth, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for the Economy at South Holland District Council, said: “This truly is fantastic technology which will revolutionise green energy, particularly for businesses. They can go up easily on a building, produce a lot of electricity and are far less intrusive than traditional wind turbines.
“I think they will be seen everywhere around the UK in the next few years, having started here in Lincolnshire.”
Ravi Rayarel, Founding Director of DSR Group, said: “These are the first two turbines to be delivered outside Norway – it is super exciting to have these in Lincolnshire as the first UK pilots.
“It is a different way of capturing wind energy. The aim is to use these to power homes and industry and have a significant impact on the cost of energy.”
James Parker, Director of Operations for Skegness Pier said: “This is a pioneering step in terms of power production.
“Power is obviously becoming more and more important for businesses like ours as it is a huge part of our expenditure. Hopefully this trial will show this technology is going to be efficient for us and pave the way for the future.
“New technology is always exciting and the hope is we get to power at least the outer deck just as a demonstration of the power it is producing.”
Angie Stuart, Head of Fresh Produce at ukFPN Lincolnshire said: “ukFPN Lincolnshire, supported by the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, is delighted to see the first Ventum wind turbines in the UK installed in Spalding and Skegness.
“This is a direct result of partnerships working together to deliver for businesses. We launched this groundbreaking project at our networking event in June last year in collaboration with DSR Group, SELCP and ukFPN members including FreshLinc.
“It’s a significant step forward and we look forward to receiving the data from the pilot and to the role out of these fabulous turbines across the country.”
