Local Benefits
RES seeks to be a power for good in the communities that neighbour its projects by working openly and constructively to ensure tangible local benefits.Community Benefits
RES firmly believe that our renewable energy schemes should also provide meaningful local benefits and we work directly with the community to understand how the wind farm could support the local area and help to secure long-term economic, social and environmental benefits.Some examples from other communities that we’ve worked with include:
- biodiversity initiatives
- business start-up initiatives
- apprenticeships/educational schemes
- improvements to village halls
- funding for schools and local community groups
- community defibrillators
- improved broadband provision
- improvements to local footpaths and/or signage
We welcome feedback and ideas for local benefits and priority projects that you would like to see supported or delivered in your community from Dunbeg South Extension Wind Farm, should it receive consent.
LEDS
Our unique Local Electricity Discount Scheme (LEDS) seeks to deliver direct and tangible benefits to people living and working closest to participating wind farms and could be delivered as part of a tailored community benefits package.
LEDS offers an annual discount to the electricity bills of those properties closest to a participating wind farm and there is no need to change energy provider. The scheme would be open to all residential, business and community buildings with an electricity meter (including schools, places of worship and village halls) within the eligible area.
Supply Chain Opportunities
RES is committed to ensuring that, wherever reasonably practicable, local contractors and employees are used in all aspects of wind farm development. The major opportunities arise during the construction phase when suitably qualified local firms are invited to bid for different aspects of construction, such as foundation laying and electrical works. Construction materials are normally sourced locally (i.e. within the county) and local transport and plant hire companies used wherever possible.RES is keen to hear from local businesses who may be able to offer skills and services to Dunbeg South Extension Wind Farm. Please contact us if you are a local business and would like to know more about opportunities for the local supply chain.
The case studies below help demonstrate RES’ commitment to working with the local supply chain and maximising inward investment opportunities wherever possible on its wind farm projects:
Castlecraig Wind Farm, Drumquin
During the construction of Castlecraig Wind Farm, near Drumquin, over £3 million inward investment was realised into the local economy. The wind farm construction also provided employment for around 50 local people.
Turbine deliveries at Castlecraig Wind Farm, near Drumquin, where £3 million inward investment was realised into the local economy.
Altaveeden Wind Farm, Loughguile
The construction of Altaveeden Wind Farm, near Loughguile was an economic success for local area, with £1.3million invested directly into Co. Antrim with £772,000 of this spent within 5 miles of the site. A number of local contractors were used including P.keenan and Sons, F.P. McCann and William and Henry Alexander (Civil Engineering) Limited
