By Staff Reporter

Last updated at 15:10, Wednesday, 24 March 2010

A west Cumbrian windfarm is among the worst performing in the country, a study has found.

Turbines at Siddick, near Workington, are said to be achieving only 15.8 per cent of their capacity, according to analysis by Allan Tubb, a former power engineer, on behalf of the Campaign to Limit Onshore Wind Development (CLOWD).

His research, based on data released by energy regulator Ofgem, is thought to be the first detailed study of Britain’s onshore wind farms.

It suggests the controversial structures have only produced a limited return despite angering communities and environmental campaigners.

The analysis reveals that more than 20 wind farms produce less than a fifth of their potential maximum power output.

One site, at Blyth Harbour in Northumberland, is thought to be the worst in Britain, operating at just 7.9 per cent of its maximum capacity.

Another at Chelker reservoir in North Yorkshire operates at only 8.7 per cent of capacity.

Both are relatively small and old, but larger and newer sites fared badly, too, according to the study.

Turbine efficiency is calculated by comparing theoretical maximum output with what the farms actually generate. The best achieve about 50 per cent efficiency and the norm is 25 per cent to 30 per cent.

Experts say the figures for individual windfarms have to be treated with caution as output can vary sharply because of factors such as breakdowns.

Michael Jefferson, professor of international business and sustainability at London Metropolitan Business School, said: “Too many developments are underperforming.

“It’s because developers grossly exaggerate the potential. The subsidies make it viable for developers to put turbines on sites they would not touch if the money was not available.”

Nick Medic of Renewable UK, which represents the wind industry, said Britain’s ambitious targets for clean power meant the country needed “every bit of green energy it could generate”.

First published at 11:26, Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk