About Us
Energy from wind
More than 5000 sites across the Severn Trent region were assessed for their wind power potential and only the best were selected for development.
We currently have four 130m-tall wind turbines at our Derby, Newthorpe and Wanlip sewage treatment sites. Each turbine generates enough electricity to power around 1500 homes. In total, our current wind turbines can produce 20,000 MWh every year. At present this power is exported to the National Grid, but future turbines will power our own sites.
Building the turbines
Over 5000 Severn Trent sites were considered for wind power and the most suitable were chosen. Research into the available wind resources and impact on the local environment was then carried out. We held public consultations and exhibitions so local communities could learn more about why we’re investing in green energy in the area.
The turbines arrived from Germany by boat before being taken to their new sites by a specialist haulage company. Due to their size the turbines were “abnormal loads” and needed a police escort. Alterations to local roads were made to take the blades around tight corners and over roundabouts, whilst special pads were built on the turbine sites to host the cranes needed to put the large parts together.
Wind Power in the community
We have enjoyed working with communities near our wind turbines to help them become more environmentally friendly. Different communities have had different needs and interests, so we have become involved in a variety of projects:
- In Derby we joined Derby City Council to run the Low Energy Neighbourhoods Scheme. This helps local people to reduce their energy and water bills to combat fuel poverty.
- At Rothley near Wanlip we provided solar panels for the village hall. The income from the electricity these generate will go to the local community.
- At Wanlip we improved the community village hall.
- We took a volunteer team to Awsworth Primary School to create their new garden and pond area.
- Near Newthorpe we make improvements to the local children’s playground.
We’re currently installing two smaller wind turbines at Lichfield and Stoke Bardolph.