Advice and funding support from the Energy Service has enabled Ripple Energy to develop the UK’s first consumer-owned wind turbine in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Summary
In 2021 to 2022, Ripple Energy developed the UK’s first consumer-owned wind turbine, the 2.5 MW Graig Fatha project in Rhondda Cynon Taf. Over 900 individuals share ownership and benefit from cheaper, clean electricity. The project also supports a community benefit fund aimed at helping people in fuel poverty in the surrounding area.
Our support
Strategic advice and funding support, including a £1.1 million grant from the Welsh Government to enable project delivery and maximise community impact.
Technology solution
- 2.5 MW wind turbine.
- 6,700 MWh of clean electricity generated annually.
- Consumer ownership model with direct bill savings for participants.
Investment
- £1.1 million grant funding from the Welsh Government.
Impact
- 42,000 tCO₂e saved over the project’s lifetime.
- £165,000 community benefit fund generated in the first year.
- Affordable green electricity for over 900 owners.
- Supports Welsh Government’s goals for locally owned renewable energy and community benefit.
Graig Fatha is the UK’s first ever consumer-owned wind farm. This means that the people who own it get supplied with low-cost green electricity that it generates and as a result they get savings off their electricity bill for its 25-year lifetime. The project aligned really well with Welsh Government’s aim to support locally owned renewable energy in Wales and deliver community benefits as well.
Sarah Merrick, CEO, Ripple Energy.
