Clive Burke, an electrical engineer in the UK, is presenting on renewable power generation and how to reduce emissions by using wind and solar power. He will be sharing his experiences of the challenges and opportunities for the community becoming involved in the ownership and operation of various types of renewable power generation.

Clive has been involved in the formation and development of the first wind farm in the South East of England which is 100% Community Owned. The scheme will produce pollution-free electricity for over 2,700 homes and will reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The wind farm involves the purchase, construction and operation of five wind turbines. The turbines will be connected to an electricity sub-station on the site, from which electricity generated will be metered and sold.

It is becoming a more widely held view that responding to climate change will see a decentralisation of infrastructure. The existing model of power generation on a national scale will be replaced by smaller units providing power and other infrastructure on a localised scale and profits fed back into the community - providing a reduction in emissions, adaptability and resilience to climate change.

This first wind farm co-operative gives local people, as a matter of priority, and others, an opportunity to invest in the production of renewable energy. This project demonstrates that the community, through a co-operative, can maximise the social, environmenta and economic benefits to the area.

As well as wind farm developments, Clive will also cover solar, small scale generation, demand management and VRB flow batteries (to store electricity on a utility scale).

Following the 30 minute informal presentation will be the opportunity for discussion and questions.

Date: Friday 8 February 2008
Time: 11.45am for tea/coffee, 12pm - 1pm presentation & discussion

Large Committee Room, Level 1,
Maroochy Shire Council,
Eddie De Vere Building,
Cnr Currie and Bury Streets, Nambour
Cost: Free
RSVP: Sally Wright 07 5441 8010 or wrights@maroochy.qld.gov.au as seats are limited