Manx Utilities given green light to commence energy construction projects

No details yet on the potential cost of the project

The Island could see up to 30 megawatts of electricity produced from onshore wind and solar energy by 2026.

The Council of Ministers has approved plans from Manx Utilities to commence the construction projects which will see solar panels installed on sites in public ownership such as car parks and government buildings.

It will also see wind turbines built, subject to planning approvals.

There are as yet no details on the cost of the project, or where the potential wind farm will be located.

In a statement, Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said: “Events over the past year have brought into sharp focus the importance of energy security and the risks of volatility in the energy markets.  It has also highlighted the benefits of investing in alternative ways of generating electricity.

“Harnessing the power of the sun and the wind will mean we can utilise our Island’s natural resources to reduce carbon emissions whilst making the Isle of Man less reliant on imported fossil fuels.”

Chair of Manx Utilities Tim Johnston MHK added: “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."

Manx Radio has contacted Manx Utilities for comment.