RSPB embraces the wind with new Ecotricity turbine
The turbine is set to generate the equivalent of over half of the electricity the RSPB uses across its 127 UK locations, while also reducing carbon emissions by up to 800 tonnes per year, helping the RSPB in reaching its emissions reduction target of 80 per cent by 2050, in line with the 2008 Climate Change Act.
Martin Harper, director of conservation at the RSPB, emphasises how climate change is not only the biggest threat to humans, but also extends to birds and wildlife.
“Around the world, and even in the UK, we can already see how these changes are affecting wildlife, the places where they live as well as damage to our homes and disruptions to the economy,” he said.
“It is down to everyone to play their part. In the UK, we have the potential to generate a significant portion, if not all, of our electricity from sustainable sources. This will take time and it will take investment.
“I am proud to say the RSPB continues to back words with actions to show we are serious about tackling the threat of climate change with our biggest single renewable energy project yet.”
The project, a partnership between the RSPB and Ecotricity, will see the green energy company finance and install the turbine, which will then produce renewable energy for the charity; an approach pioneered by Ecotricity 15 years ago, with similar operations put in place for Ford, Michelin, Sainsbury’s and B&Q.
Dale Vince, Ecotricity founder, believes the project is a 21st century approach to making energy in Britain, explaining how Ecotricity is working with its customers to make energy where they live and work, while also sharing the benefits with them.
“Green energy puts power in the hands of the people; the technology allows us to democratise and decentralise energy in Britain. That’s exactly what this partnership does; it allows us to work together with our customers to make green energy where they need it and to share the benefits – the complete opposite of the old top down approach,” he said.
“Green energy is also a strong economic and an environmental choice; it’s about jobs and the new industrial revolution, about building a truly sustainable economy in Britain.”
