RES, the renewable energy developer currently constructing Den Brook Wind Farm between North Tawton, Spreyton and Bow, says that as of March 2016, it has contributed almost £2 million to the local and regional economy during the early stages of construction of the wind farm.

The company says this significant investment reflects RES’ commitment to using local contractors where possible to ensure the local business community benefits directly from the construction of the wind farm.

This has included using local suppliers for stone, concrete and steel as well as for civil engineering services, plant hire and operators.

Mike Keenor, manager of Dunn 2000, a local small business based in North Tawton, has been working on the site for the last eight months.

Dunn 2000 is just one of a number of local plant hire firms that have been involved in the construction process to date.

Mr Keenor said: “It has been great to have the opportunity to work with RES at Den Brook. I live and work locally and think it is excellent that RES has used local businesses where possible.”

Richard Wagstaff, Construction Manager, said: “As an independent British company it is very important to us to work with local people and companies as much as possible. We’ve been fortunate at Den Brook to have such a skilled supply chain available to us so locally and I’m delighted with the team we’ve formed through the civil works.

“The quality of the works completed, to date, reflects the professionalism of the companies locally and I am looking forward to further local involvement as we move through the electrical and turbine phases of the project.

“An important part of the Den Brook Wind Farm project is delivering a longer term legacy to the local economy by using local suppliers and employing local people.”

As well as having a positive economic impact on the local business community, a community benefits package totalling £90,000 per year will become available once the wind farm is operational.

The Community Benefit Fund of £36,000 per year, index linked, to support local social and environmental projects will be administered by representatives from the parish/town councils of Bow, Spreyton, Zeal Monachorum, South Tawton and North Tawton.

In addition, residential, commercial and community properties within 2.3 km of the turbines will be able to sign up to RES’ Local Electricity Discount Scheme which offers an annual discount of £108 off their electricity bill. This discount is paid direct to their electricity supplier and eligible properties will be contacted with more details over the coming months.?Renewable Energy Systems Ltd (RES) was granted consent for the wind farm in 2009 and construction began in July 2015.

The plan includes nine 75-metre hub height 2 MW V90 Vesta turbines (120-metre total turbine and tip of blade height) which RES say will produce 18 MW of power, enough for 9,000 UK homes, when installed.

A trial run of turbine deliveries successfully took place on March 31. The turbines are expected to be delivered to the site in forthcoming months.

Alan Quick