UK town of Berwick approves planning for micro turbine to power local school

In England’s northernmost town of Berwick, a wind turbine will be erected in the Newfields playing field to supply electricity to St. Mary’s First School, The Berwick Advertiser reported yesterday (June 10). The Northumberland County Council has approved plans for the construction of the 15-kilowatt turbine, which would be made up of a 15-meter tower with 9.6-meter blades, for a total height of 19.8 meters. The changing rooms of Berwick’s community center will also be powered by the turbine.

The Berwick Environmental Group (BEG) lodged the planning application through Councilor Brian Douglas. Proven Energy Ltd., the world’s leading installer of micro turbines, will build the turbine.

Despite early questions on the turbine’s effect on noise levels, it was reported that noise from the turbine upon operation would be way below speech interference levels, especially since the turbine would not be having a gear box, planning officer Peter Rutherford told The Berwick Advertiser.

Concerns about shadow flicker affecting the school during afternoons were also raised. Through its head teacher, the school reportedly stated that it is equipped with blinds to deal with any event of shadow flicker.

The turbine would also be close to the A1 roundabout, which raised the issue of whether the turbine’s movement would distract passing motorists. Councilor Anthony Murray, however, told The Berwick Advertiser that the turbine’s location will not harm the amenity of the town.





UK town of Berwick approves planning for micro turbine to power local school

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