Renewable energy, sustainability and climate change are all buzz words in constant use today. World targets have been set to reduce CO2 emissions and to increase the generation and use of energy from renewable sources.
Therefore there are opportunities for landowners and farmers to not only help the environment, but also to create new and hopefully profitable farm diversification enterprises and gaining free or low cost electricity, or feed in tariff (FIT) or rent (depending on the scheme). Feed-in tariffs are a mechanism to support small scale generators of renewable electricity of up to 5 MW. They offer a guaranteed price for electricity generated from a range of renewable technologies, for a guaranteed period – 20-25 years.
Our team works with specialists to ensure the everchanging technology and expertise is used to your advantage :
Solar PV
We have done a lot of work with clients recently assessing and planning solar pv projects ( generally up to 50kw) . A number of sites have been considered suitable and are at various stages of development. Solar PV is a simple form of harnessing day light energy and generating electricity ! This will appeal to those who wish to invest in the technology themselves or to landowners who wish to rent out some land ( or a roof) to a PV operator. We currently have a small scheme which would suit landowners who want to gain “free electricity” and benefit from a rental payment, whilst not having to make a large financial investment themselves or loose too much land. Also smaller domestic schemes are available, generally up to 4kw and large scale fully invested 50kw projects.
Wind turbines
From small 18m to large 50m turbines – there is a scheme to suit everyone. The larger scheme suit large investors and attract a good return, whilst the smaller turbines offer an affordable green option investment. A rental type scheme is also available with a third party making the investment and you gaining a rental payment and “free electricity”. Before embracing any such project, make sure you speak to our team to get specialist advice.
Anaerobic digestion
Farmers can either invest in their own AD plants, feeding it on crops grown on farm together with animal waste or import waste from off farm sources. Those who are reluctant to undertake the whole project in isolation can do so in conjunction with development partners.
Hydro power
This clever type of renewable energy utilises the force of water to drive a turbine to generate electricity – you need a high volume flow or high gravitational head of water. Our specialist team can make sure you get the correct advice and arrange for appraisals to be carried out to check suitability.
Biomass & Biofuels
A popular option for some with woodchips and pellets or energy crops (miscanthus) being burnt and used as a replacement fossil fuel and therefore reducing the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The system can produce direct heat or energy or both. These are complex systems
Ground & air source heat pumps
Gaining in popularity, especially in light of the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme which is about to be launched. Ground Source transfers heat from the ground into a building via a pipework and pump system. The pipes buried in the ground absorbs the heat from the earth and this is then captured and delivered to the domestic internal system such as under floor heating. Air Source Heat Pumps work by absorbing external heat in the air and transferring it to the building via two methods. – air to air or air to water systems. These are gaining in popularity and are ideal on new builds or well insulated properties.
For a further information regarding renewable energy options please ring 01267 230645
