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Planning for Wind Energy

A workshop for the north west region
2nd June 2004 Cumbria
Supported by Government and industry

Programme

Session I: Government Policy for Renewable Energy and Planning

Welcome and introduction
Julian Carter, Renewables Northwest

A New Industry for Britain: Government Policy and Commitment to Renewable Energy
David Still, Renewables Adviser, Department of Trade and Industry

David, a senior civil servant from the DTI, will present the Energy White Paper, published in February last year, the most positive statement on renewable energy by a UK Government. The Government has also set targets for renewable energy which the regions have an obligation to meet.

PPS22 Consultation Draft: What does it mean for you?
David Wilkes, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

David Wilkes, a senior level civil servant at the ODPM responsible for writing PPS22, outlines the new national planning policy statement. His presentation will include the implications for planning authorities in preparing their development plans and assessing proposals for wind farm development. There will also be an introduction to an accompanying Good Practice Guide for planners.

A Regional Perspective for the North West
Julian Carter, Renewables Northwest

Julian will provide an insight into the Regional Spatial Strategy and renewable energy targets for the North West. He will also highlight, using case examples, some of the proactive work being undertaken by his organisation and outline how they can help and advise planning authorities in understanding the need for wind energy at a regional level.

Session II: Why Wind? Understanding the Facts, Myths and Development Considerations

Climate Change and the Need for Renewables
Jean McSorley, Greenpeace UK

Jean will remind us all why we are investing in renewable energy in the UK and throughout the world. She will look at the scientific reality of global warming and its predicted effects on the environment from a global down to a local perspective.

Landscape & Noise Constraints and Considerations
Lindsey Guthrie, SLR Consulting & Malcolm Hayes, Hayes McKenzie

Lindsey and Malcolm, expert consultants on technical issues, will describe and explain the landscape and noise considerations for site design and location. They will also feature the models and methods available for measuring landscape effects and noise, which form a key part of all Environmental Impact Assessments.

Session III: A Range of Perspectives

The Industry Perspective
Bill Richmond, BWEA Board Member and Chairman of Your Energy Ltd

Bill is the BWEA Board Member responsible for Planning and Chairman of independent developer, Your Energy. He will provide an in depth analysis tailored to the planning and Councillor audience, highlighting the various siting constraints, and the range of considerations that are made during the detailed Environmental Impact Assessment. Bill will use case examples to demonstrate best practice in consultation during various stages in the development process to ensure effective working with local communities.

Local Perspective: Local Planning and Decision Making
Andrew Dobson, Head of Planning and Building Control, Lancaster City Council

With experience of policy making for renewable energy and case assessment of wind energy proposals, Andrew will look at best practice to date for wind farm applications.

Support Mechanisms: Where to go for advice
Alison Hill, Head of Communications, BWEA

Alison Hill, Head of Communications for BWEA has 5 years' experience of working for BWEA during which time she has read and heard countless rumours about the effects of wind turbines. This presentation will let you know what to expect when an application is submitted in your area. Using case examples, and citing a number of studies, Alison will explain where to go for advice.

Lambrigg Wind Farm: prelude to site visit
John Ainslie, Head of Development Strategy, npower renewables

Visit to Lambrigg Wind Farm - see (and hear!) for yourself
Hosted by npower renewables, project developers and operators

Built over 3 years ago, Lambrigg is still one of the most modern working wind farms in the UK. This 5 turbine development is typical of many proposals for the North West and displays the latest in wind farm technology. Situated in a prominent setting near the M6, Lambrigg is one of the most viewed wind farms in the UK and has become a landmark feature on the journey through Cumbria. It provides enough electricity to supply the needs of 4,000 homes and saves nearly 15,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases each year.

A marquee will be on site in case of bad weather! Do come along and speak to a number of experts who will be on hand to answer your questions. Please note that it is worthwhile wrapping up warm and bringing a waterproof coat and stout footwear!