A Short History of Community Wind Farms in Britain

1) Baywind

Baywind Energy Co-operative Ltd (an Industrial & Provident Society) is the first UK community wind farm.

Formed in 1996, modeled on co-operatives in Scandinavia. A Swedish benefactor financed the pre-planning expenses.

In 1996/97 a share offer raised £1.2 million for two turbines at Harlock Hill. In 1998/99 £670,000 bought a turbine, at Haverigg II.

40% of existing Baywind shareholders live either in Cumbria or Lancaster with a wider number from the Northwest.

2) Energy4All

Energy4All was formed by the Baywind Energy Co-operative in 2002 to extend the co-operative model through the UK.

Energy4All is owned by Baywind, Boyndie, Westmill, Fenland Green, Skye, Kilbraur and Great Glen co-ops. As new co-ops are established they will share in the ownership of Energy4All.

3) Westmill

Westmill Co-op was established in 2004 at Westmill Farm, Oxfordshire, the first wind farm co-operative in South England.

Five wind turbines financed by £4.6m shares and a bank loan. Generation started in February 2008. Westmill is one of the Energy4All group of co-ops.

Unity Wind Limited could join Energy4All once we have planning permission or we may choose to go on as we are.

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