Other energy groups

From Energy-Experts

Mendip Power Group

What are we? Mendip Power Group was formed in 2002 to harness clean, green energy from sustainable sources using mills and other properties on rivers in Mendip District. The objectives of the group are:

• To work with key authorities, energy efficiency and renewable energy organisations, and organisations in the public, private and community sectors to successfully install renewable energy generating systems.
• To promote improved energy efficiency and increased development and use of renewable sources of power, through a community development fund.
• To attract funding to meet these objectives.

How much power will be generated?

From the 14 Sites that are in the group we estimate we will generate 2,000 mWh per year. This is enough to provide all the electricity needed for 450 homes and will save 900 tonnes of CO2. Tellisford Mill generates 280,000kWh per year. How much will it cost to bring these mills into use?

Cost varies depending on the type of turbine used. At Wallbridge Mill outside Frome there is an existing turbine that has been be restored at a cost of about £25,000. Tellisford’s ruined mill has a new turbine which cost £450,000,including the civil works which will break even in less than 12 years. How does the electricity get from the mills to your house?

Each mill sends surplus electricity to the national grid. From there utility companies sell to the individual house owner.

Who pays us for the electricity?

Money comes in five ways. First the utility companies pay about 6p per unit; they also pay 0..4218p per unit for the levy exemption certificate (LEC). Thirdly they buy Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) that are worth 3.576p per unit. Fourth the ROC recycle fund pays about 1.5p per unit to renewable generators, the fund is financed from fines levied on the generators which have not met their quota. With enough LECs the utility companies do not have to pay the climate change levy. The last payment is called the Triad, this pays about £19.20 per unit for the average electricity generated in the 3 peak half hour periods that are more than 10 days apart between 1 November and 28 February. For 2008/9 the total of all these payments is about £0.114 per unit

Do you want to know more?

Chairman: Anthony Battersby or Joint Secretary: Rachel Feilden at Tellisford Mill

01373-830322 </span>FBA@compuserve.com