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BWEA News

UK's largest installation of rooftop turbines goes ahead

Monday 13th February 2006

Co-operative Financial Services (CFS) has become the first business to install the largest-ever commercial application of small wind turbines in the UK by launching a project at its Co-operative Insurance (CIS) offices.

Climate Change and Environment Minister Elliot Morley switched on the first one kilowatt (1 kW) turbine on 30th January on the roof of the CIS building in Manchester, saying:

"Co-operative Financial Services (CFS) are to be congratulated on this impressive development which shows how micro-wind turbines can be used to help combat climate change. There must be thousands of buildings like this one in city centres across the country that could help to cut energy costs, increase energy efficiency, and yield environmental benefits."

CIS will install a total of 19 Windsave 1kW turbines on its 13-storey building. The turbines are expected to generate around 44,000 kWh per annum, saving around one tonne of carbon dioxide (CO₂) each year. With around a third of UK's CO₂ emissions coming from buildings, CIS is already feeling the impacts of climate change.

David Anderson, Chief Executive of CFS, said:

"As an insurer, CIS is already experiencing the reality of climate change impacts, not only on the business, but also on the lives of its customers. Over the past decade, CIS has seen claims arising from environmental flooding increase almost 500% and these now total more than £1.5 million per annum."

David Gordon of Windsave said:

"Windsave are very pleased to be involved in the first major urban windfarm, which has been erected on top of the CIS Building in Manchester. By working together with CIS, we are at the forefront of delivering carbon reduction in a responsible way. There are countless opportunities countrywide to introduce microgeneration on rooftops, and this example in Manchester should encourage other companies to participate in the mini-turbine revolution."

The Co-operative bank is one the leading ethical banks in the UK and a number of its products include a donation to Climate Care, which campaigns towards combating global warming.

For further information on small wind systems, including whether they might be a suitable option for your home or business, visit www.bwea.com/small.