Onshore Wind and Solar to Power Future

Manx Utilities has received CoMin approval for its plans to commence construction projects which will see up to 30 megawatts of electricity produced from onshore wind and solar energy by 2026.

Concerns over the global supply of gas, used to generate most of the island’s electricity, have seen prices reach record highs, fuelling inflation and putting pressure on energy bills.

Chair of Manx Utilities Tim Johnston MHK said: ‘Currently, electricity demand in the Isle of Man averages at around 40 megawatts and peaks at about 75 megawatts in winter, but can fall to as low as 25 megawatts at night during the summer.

‘With the help of independent specialist consultants, Manx Utilities has undertaken detailed work to determine the best approach to increasing the Island’s use of renewable energy whilst not compromising supply security and the needs of its customers.

‘To meet the programme deadlines, sites in public ownership are being targeted for installing solar panels; this will involve the use of car parks and government buildings.  Subject to planning approvals, wind turbines could be built on publicly owned sites focussing on areas where the wind yield is likely to be highest.’

There has been no confirmation about the potential cost of the this project.