FIOS COLUMN – 16 AUGUST 2016
In early August we were delighted to finally receive confirmation from Ofgem that the two additional turbines at Baile an Truiseil would receive the Feed-in Tariff that had been applied for. That wraps up the consents required for the project and means that we now have the key income secured over the 20 year lifespan of the turbines.
There is a significant difference between the tariffs for the first turbine and for the two additional turbines, demonstrating how dramatic the reductions in financial support have been in recent years. We are fortunate to have come through the process just as major changes were pending but other community organisations at earlier development stages have, unfortunately, missed out for the time being. Scottish and Southern Energy has recently provided estimates of costs for grid connections to community groups with aspirations to develop further local renewable energy assets, assuming additional exporting capacity is secured through the planned inter-connector/sub-sea cables to the mainland. However, the level of expenditure indicated by SSE is prohibitively expensive and a major disincentive.
Meantime, the three turbines at Baile an Truiseil have been performing well over the summer period with output at 128% of forecast for the three months to end July. This is an even better performance when we factor in the grid maintenance shut-downs that occurred for one week in each of May and June. A further four days was lost to grid maintenance last week due to essential works on the Barvas Moor, however, SSE has advised that no further interruptions are planned until next April.
On other fronts, we are continuing with our strategy planning sessions and intend to undertake a quick visitor survey and also meet with local churches, youth representatives plus crofting interests this month. A household survey is also scheduled for September.
We have recently been notified that some groups have been fishing on the Estate without permission. It is important that anyone wishing to fish on the Estate seeks the correct permissions before going out fishing, otherwise they may be committing an offence. It is important to contact the estate office in advance to seek a rod permit.
Our events continue with another family River Dipping/Rock Pooling session on Saturday 27th August from 1pm-4pm at Borve shore. Children participating must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information on our events or any other points, please visit www.galsontrust.com, follow us on Facebook or call the office on 01851 850393 / email: office@uogltd.com
