North Uist has some of the best wind resource in the world, with an average wind speed high above UK norms. We aim to harness this energy with proven technology to secure a sustainable future for the community.
The Project - Am Pròiseact
UistWind is a project of the North Uist Development Company (Trading) Limited (NUDC-T) which was initiated by members of North Uist Development Company (NUDC) and the wider North Uist community. NUDC-T was established as a Community Benefit Society in 2018, and has been set up to enable the development of our wind farm in line with the following founding objectives:
Developing and operating a renewable energy project or projects ;
Providing an opportunity for public-spirited people and organisations to contribute financially to the community, with the expectation of financial and social reward;
Supporting the activities of North Uist Development Company in its charitable objectives.
Technical development to date
Feasibility studies identified a suitable site on Criongrabhal, near Clachan-na-Luib, suitable for 2 turbines generating a total of 1.8MW. Planning permission has been obtained from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and, Scottish & Southern Electricity (SSE) has granted an export license to enable electricity generated to be sold to the National Grid. Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) pre-accreditation was acknowledged on 11th December 2017.
Raising additional capital
We have already raised around £332,550 through community share offer and we are seeking to meet the final investment target of £350,000 by 31st December 2018. This crowdfunding campaign aims to raise this additional capital. We are calling on supporters near and far to support our island community in our bid to build this transformational project.
Clean, green energy
Once installed, the two turbines are estimated to generate more than 6,370MWh of green electricity each year. This is equivalent electricity to power more than 1,300 homes a year and reduce carbon dioxide by over 2,230 tonnes annually. Renewable energy has an important role to play in addressing the key issues of climate change and security of supply and we recognise our role in supporting a greener future.
Bringing economic and social benefit to the community
Our conservative financial projections indicate the project will generate up to £2.33 million over 22 years, providing on average £105,000 annually to the local community. These funds will be used to fund a variety of local projects and initiatives in direct support of those people, community groups and charitable organisations based in North Uist.
The surplus will vary depending on interest payments and, of course, the weather! If North Uist has a very windy year there may be more profits available.
Please donate to our campaign and help us raise the additional capital needed to meet our investment target and provided a sustainable revenue stream for the local community.
www.uistwind.com