The latest update on the Spondon wind turbines has been released by Severn Trent and suggests that the turbines will finally be fully operational by Christmas.
The update from Jon Beeson, Renewable Energy Projects Specialist at Severn Trent, explains that the turbines are currently being tested intermittently as part of the work to ensure that the radar systems at East Midlands Airport are not affected by the turbines once they are in full operation.
Mr Beeson's update features the following key points:
- We are currently operating the turbines intermittently for testing purposes. This week, we have operated the turbines from 10am until 4pm (Mon-Fri) Outside of these times the turbines are allowed to operate in ‘idle mode’ (i.e. rotate at a slower speed up to 6 rpm)
- This intermittent operation is helping to provide flash data for the new radar technology that is being installed. Once this data is gathered, we will then be able to determine the exact position of the equipment within our Sewage Works.
- We are hoping to have the equipment deployed & installed within the Sewage Works during November 2014.
- In December 2014 we hope to fully operate the turbines; once the CAA & East Midlands Airport have confirmed that they approve the system & it is safe to operate the turbines.
Once fully operational, the turbiones - nicknamed Winnie and Tony by children from Asterdale Primary School - are expected to generate around 10,000 megawatt hours of electricity each year – the equivalent to supplying power to 3,000 homes. Mr Beeson said: "Bringing these turbines to life will generate renewable energy for the next 25 years and we will take the time that it needs to get them working safely."
