Regional renewable energy group Regen SW has hit a new milestone – 200 organisations have joined within just 15 months to support its mission to enable ground-breaking renewable energy projects and low carbon jobs.
This achievement comes as new figures show renewable energy share of electricity generated jumped from 7% to 9.5% across the UK in 2011, according to latest figures from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).
Regen SW members range from leading international firms such as Bristol-based Garrad Hassan – the world’s leading renewable energy consultancy – and international consulting engineers Arup, to growing small businesses such as Marine Current Turbines, based in Bristol.
Major local landowners such as the Duchy of Cornwall and local authorities such as Devon, Cornwall and Bristol councils have also signed up.
Regen SW chairman Michael Huntingford said: “The growth of Regen SW’s membership is a ringing endorsement of the importance and impact of our work to develop renewable energy and support the growth of thriving local businesses in this rapidly developing sector.”
Chief executive Merlin Hyman, of Regen SW added: “Renewable energy is a huge economic opportunity employing more than 10,000 people in the South West, as well as a source of secure and sustainable energy. By bringing together the strength of 200 companies and public bodies we can deliver pioneering projects that demonstrate what can be achieved, and unlock new investment.”
Regen’s pioneering projects include:
· Communities for Renewables: to enable community led renewable energy
· South West Marine Energy Park: developing the offshore renewable energy supply chain
· SW Bioheat: backing the development of sustainable local biomass to replace oil heating
· Green Deal accelerator: to support south west business to make the most of this huge opportunity for new jobs.
Swindon Business News is producing its annual Green Special in August looking at the area's achievements in the low-carbon and renewables industry. For details contact Anita Jaynes on 01793 615393 or email anita@swindon-business.net
