Plans to create 'rural employment zone' could support MU grid

Public meeting on renewable energy project taking place in Andreas

Proposals for a project that would generate renewable energy in the north of the Island could support Manx Utilities' grid.

That’s the view of those behind the scheme which claim it will generate 27MW at peak production and create 10 operational jobs.

Residual heat from the project could be used offsite to heat up to 300 homes.

A public consultation meeting will take place next week to discuss the next steps in the plans to redevelop Andreas Airfield.

If given the go-ahead, the privately funded development would include solar panels and an anaerobic digester, that would generate energy from crops.

It’s hoped construction could start next spring.

Landowner Robert Morrey and Ed Jessamine from IPV Flexgen have both been speaking to Phil Gawne:

The public consultation meeting will take place at Andreas Parish Hall between 10am and 7pm on Wednesday, 10 June.

In a statement to Manx Radio, Manx Utilities said: "In terms of Manx Utilities’ involvement, we have had a long-standing dialogue with the Andreas Energy Hub team, discussing their potential options at the site over a number of years. Our main dialogue has been about how grid connections could be facilitated and to improve our understanding of the types of technology which could be utilised on the site. Manx Utilities recognises the potential of the site as an energy hub and thanks AEH for its early engagement and transparency during the process. As and when a planning application is made for the site, Manx Utilities will contribute in the usual fashion."