An innovative project by leading civil engineering company Jones Bros to breathe new life into one of the country’s oldest wind farms is nearing completion.
REG Windpower will yield cleaner, renewable energy at St Breock in north Cornwall after replacing 11 existing wind turbines with five more efficient, taller models.
Repowering the wind farm, which has been generating renewable electricity for almost 3,000 homes since 1994, will more than double the quantity of electricity produced, thanks to vast improvements in turbine technology.
Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK decommissioned the existing wind turbines and prepared the site, near Wadebridge, for five, 100m turbines that will begin generating power in a phased operation during April.
The company, which has developed considerable expertise in developing infrastructure for wind farms across the UK, is now building a reputation for decommissing sites that are coming to the end of their natural life.
John Dielhof, contracts director of Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK, based in North Wales, said: “Repowering wind farms maximises energy generation and gives new life to these sites. We are pleased to be at the forefront of this revolution as we see the next generation of turbines installed.
“We’ve amassed a great deal of experience in managing the complex logistics of working over large expanses in remote areas,’’ he continued. “Our engineers understand the special requirements of projects involving the construction of access roads to accommodate abnormal loads, turbine foundations, substation buildings and electrical infrastructure.”
Claudia Richard, Community Relations Manager with REG Windpower, said: “The repower at St Breock enables us to generate even more safe, clean renewable energy, as well as supporting local good causes with a community benefit fund for the duration of the wind farm’s working life.”
Founded in the 1950s and employing approximately 300 people, Jones Bros has grown rapidly in the last decade. It is currently working on contracts in various sectors including the construction of waste management facilities, highways, flood and marine defence and renewable energy projects around the UK.