Goonhilly Wind Farm helps to kick start activities in the local area

Many will be familiar with the wind farm that exists on Goonhilly Downs. The six turbines currently operating, replaced one of the earliest windfarms in Cornwall. Being far more efficient, they produce about three times as much electricity as the former fourteen turbines and have been generating for over 10 years, providing clean electricity to the entire Lizard peninsula.

One of the often unrecognised benefits to local communities is that, simultaneously with the repowering of the original turbines, a community fund was established to benefit communities within the TR 12 postal region. This has been quietly operating since February 2012 and has given away nearly £455,000 over the last 10 years to local organisations.

Administered by The Cornwall Community Foundation, a panel comprising local members meets a few times a year to consider applications and make sure the funds are used to kick start activities that will have a long-term benefit to residents of TR12. A recent panel saw £18,000 being awarded to six community groups and projects.

Richard Nathan who lives at Bonython, home of the turbines and acts as Chair of the panel said, “I am delighted to confirm the continued support of RES [who manage the wind farm]. This means that for the foreseeable future, funds will continue to be paid to the fund to be distributed to approved local initiatives. This is a great opportunity for groups to get help with their projects and create a better community for all.”

The recent round of approved applications includes:-
Children’s Sailing Trust
Helston Rugby Club
Kestle Barton
Coverack Gig Club
National Coastwatch Institution-Nare Point
Forget me Not Memory Café (St Keverne)

Shane Jury, Asset Manager at RES for Goonhilly Wind Farm said, “The community fund from Goonhilly Wind Farm has been supporting local schools, charities and community groups for over 10 years. We are delighted to still see so many worthwhile applications coming to the fund and we’re looking forward to supporting even more local causes in the years to come.”

Anyone with a potential project within the TR12 postcode can submit an Expression of Interest Form, here.