17 April 2008

NWDA GIVE THE GREEN LIGHT ON WIND TURBINE

The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) is making a commitment to renewable energy by officially launching its state-of-the-art Wind Turbine at Renaissance House in Warrington at the end of May.

Standing almost 25 metres high, the turbine will feed directly into the Agency’s electrical supply and will have a Co2 emission saving of 9,675kg per year. Statistics relating to the energy generated will also be displayed on an interactive monitor in the reception area.

The Wind Turbine was supplied by Scottish firm Proven Energy, a company with over 30 years experience. Advanced technology ensures the Proven Wind Turbine will continue to operate in extreme weather conditions, by utilising hinged blades that automatically fold inwards to ensure a constant spinning speed. It is the first to be supplied by the manufacturer with this new dampening system.

The Turbine will be officially launched by Helen Jones, MP for Warrington North at 12pm on Friday 30th May, in preparation for World Environment Day on 5th June.

As part of the Northwest Regional Economic Strategy (RES) the NWDA works with partners to promote energy efficiency and recognises the need to make alternative sources of energy available to ensure future requirements allow for continued sustainable growth.

The idea for a sustainable form of energy for the Agency was proposed by Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive of the NWDA:

“Since 2005 we have explored the initiative and after careful consultation with partners, concluded that the site was best suited to benefit from wind power. A team of specialists determined wind movements across the whole of Warrington to ensure the Turbine would be a viable option and was then suitably placed to make the most of the conditions.

“The Turbine is a real symbol of the Agency’s commitment to helping sustain the Northwest’s future energy requirements.”

The Turbine was installed by Cumbrian company Wind Turbine Services and is erected due west in order to benefit from optimum wind movements. It can be seen on approach to the office from the main road and provides a real visual statement to sustainable energy in the region.

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Notes to editors:

For further information please contact Shelley, Tattersall, Press Officer on 01925 400256 or mobile 07500 128482 or shelley.tattersall@nwda.co.uk

For further information and to view previous press releases visit us at www.nwda.co.uk

The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) leads the economic development and regeneration of England's Northwest and is responsible for:

• Supporting business growth and encouraging investment
• Matching skills provision to employer needs
• Creating the conditions for economic growth
• Connecting the region through effective transport and communication infrastructure
• Promoting the region’s outstanding quality of life