Community Benefit
Wind2 propose to make an annual contribution £5,000 for every megawatt of installed capacity during the period of operation to a local community benefit fund. On the basis of a 14.4MW project, this will amount to a community benefit fund with an equivalent annual value of £72,000 or £2.1 million over the life of the project. Wind2 will tailor the community benefits package offered, based on feedback from the local communities, to contribute tangible benefits.
Near Neighbour Electricity Contribution
If the community wish to utilise a portion of the community benefit fund to implement reduction in electricity bills, Wind2 can support this by implementing a Near Neighbours Electricity Contribution scheme. Our scheme is based on residents living in close proximity of one of our wind turbines receiving up to a £400 contribution to their annual home electricity bill. If this option is selected, the qualifying properties will receive the payment annually in arrears based on actual energy bills. As with other elements of the community benefit package, payments will be index linked. New build properties and approved plots will also be eligible.
Alternatively, residents of properties within close proximity of the wind farm may choose to capitalise the electricity bill contribution, converting this to a single lump sum of £4,500 to fund or part fund measures to improve the energy efficiency and decarbonisation of their home. The cost of these measures will be reimbursed up to a maximum value of £4,500 upon presentation of receipts, covering all eligible works submitted in a single claim. An opportunity exists to collaborate with neighbours to deliver a project with an increased benefit to residents.
Contact the Wind2 team for more details.
Community Share Ownership
Wind2 will explore potential models for part community share ownership of the proposed Hill of Stoneyfield wind farm, whereby the local communities have the opportunity to invest in the project.
A variety of community share ownership structures, in line with the Scottish Government’s Good Practice Principles, will be explored and discussed with the local communities as the project progresses to establish the appropriate structure.
Further information regarding community ownership is available at: www.localenergy.scot