Green energy co-operative set to install hydro-electric turbine

As part of the Co-Operative Enterprise Hub and Esk Energy contract, JN Bently will design and install a fish-friendly turbine, known as an Archimedes screw, in the River Esk, Ruswarp.

The turbine is expected to utilise more than four tonnes of water per second, while the single screw will rotate to turn energy into electricity. It is estimated the initiative will generate almost 200,000kWh of green electricity each year and cut carbon emissions by 1,500 tonnes during the first 20 years.

Meanwhile, surplus income ‘generated’ by the community co-operative will be used for further carbon reduction initiatives, such as a grant system towards the installation of solar, wind and water energy generating systems in the Esk Valley and green entrepreneurships.

Co-operative head of community investment Michael Fairclough, said: “The co-operative business model gives people a say in how services are delivered and it is a model that is being increasingly adopted.”

Work is expected to start in April with electricity generation commencing during the summer.

Further information on the project is available at www.whitbyeskenergy.org.uk

Carys Matthews