http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news Latest and archived news from Western Renewable Energy including details of current and past products, new products, staff appointments and general updates. en-us Wed, 21 Mar 2012 22:50:48 CET Wed, 21 Mar 2012 22:50:48 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/rss CWCMS enquiries@westernrenew.co.uk enquiries@westernrenew.co.uk 3600 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry62 A new WRE designed and comissioned generation system in Cornwall, recently installed - before guarding and housing of the generator and gearbox. Wed, 21 Mar 2012 22:50:48 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry62 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry61 WRE has just completed the installation of a two flight fish pass with resting pool to allow upstream migrating fish pass a 5m high barrier in Devon Wed, 21 Mar 2012 22:47:05 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry61 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry60 WRE has been working for some time on a hydro scheme on the River Barle, a large tributary of the Exe.  Today permission was unanimously granted for a 78kW hydro plant on the river at Dulverton.  This system will be a reinstatement of a hydro scheme dormant since the 1950's.  The owners of the site have worked tirelessly to develop a proposal which includes the best practice available at this sensitive site.  The prospect of vastly improving the passage of fish past the site is to be welcomed, and the renewable power produced will mean that this is absolutely a 'win-win' site.  We look forward to seeing this site become an exemplar of sustainability within the National Park. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 22:28:45 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry60 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry59 WRE has just completed a small hydro scheme in South Devon.  The scheme incorporates 6mm fish screening, a spacious powerhouse, and a compact crossflow turbine operating on 180l/s and 4.5m head.  The system is simple, fully automated and quiet in operation.  The layout is typical of many smaller mills, and whilst elements of the historical systems were used, most of the system was new. Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:44:55 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry59 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry58 A view in the powerhouse of a 25kW single jet Pelton installed by WRE in Somerset, commissioned in 2012. Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:14:31 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry58 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry57 A view of the 250 tonne crane installing the 2.8 cumec, 4.5m head turbine - a 90kW machine which looks relatively small as it lifts over the new works at Buckfast. Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:09:54 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry57 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry56 WRE is currently installing another hydro scheme on the River Dart, immediately downstream from the first screw turbine on this river (installed by WRE, Castleford engineering and GP Electronics in 2006).  The system includes a fishpass and is the biggest flowrate turbine in the Dart system.  WRE is based at Old Walls on the West Webburn river which is the largest output hydro plant now in the Dart catchment, this plant when added to WRE designed and installed plants at Ashburton, Buckfast, Poundsgate and Dartington brings the installed capacity to around 230kW.  For some historical benchmark, around 1950 there was about 700kW of hydro on the Dart, but by 1980 this had dwindled to a small fraction of this, the current renaissance is therefore only partially regaining lost ground, and the total possible capacity is actually many megawatts, if as a society we were reasonably committed to hydro. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:29:30 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry56 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry55 WRE recently completed these impressions of a new hydro scheme to support a planning application - along with our normal engineering drawings and documents. Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:27:26 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry55 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry54 WRE is currently installing a new 23kW crossflow turbine at a site on Dartmoor. The system is equipped with an advanced control system which can be operated via the internet, and controls not only the turbine itself, but also ancillary equipment such as the screening equipment.  This type of control system is increasingly being deployed on even moderate schemes to maximise output and minimise downtime. It can also make operation and maintenance by WRE more straightforward. Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:22:48 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry54 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry53 Construction has commenced at a site on the Dart for a new 90kW screw turbine to be completed in 2012. Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:16:25 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry53 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry52 A small system similar to the system at Cotehele is under construction currently.  The old mill has a small flow and modest head, but can generate 5.5kW when complete.  The system is designed, built and commissioned by WRE and will be equipped with a small crossflow turbine when complete.  Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:14:16 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry52 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry51 The largest screw turbine hydro system operating on the Thames, designed by WRE has generated successfully.  The system uses 8 cubic metres of water per second, on a 1.7m head, and is the largest flow screw turbine operating in the UK. The system was challenging because it was built so close to the existing historic mill building. Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:10:10 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry51 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry50 The low flows which have been evident all year have allowed WRE to make good progress on a number of sites, and we currently have over 250kW of sites under construction.  The WRE designed system at Mapledurham is developing well under the watchful eye of Greenfords, and the Rehart turbine will be delivered soon.  This is the largest flow of any screw turbine in the UK, and should be operating during October.  In addition WRE is working at two mill sites in Devon, one near Chagford and one near Dartmouth, with a capacity of around 30kW in total, both to be equipped with Ecowave crossflow machines.  A significant project at Buckfast Abbey on the Dart is just commencing, with the screw turbine recently ordered from Ritz-Atro for this site, and is the largest power output turbine from this company installed in the UK to date. Coupled with this, a significant number of other sites are moving forward, meaning that whilst we will comission more capacity in 2011 than ever before, we are confident that 2012 will result in even more capacity Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:22:35 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry50 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry49 WRE has designed, installed and commissioned a 15kW hydro site which is the runs on 32m net head and 72 l/s.  Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:57:20 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry49 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry48 WRE has designed and is installing a Pelton based system generating over 20kW from 70m net head.  The system has a pipeline which is nearly 1km long but the whole system is expected to be almost unnoticable. Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:53:40 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry48 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry47 WRE has commissioned a very small flow crossflow system at a local site in Devon. Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:50:58 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry47 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry46 Recently WRE has commissioned this 37kW site in the Yorkshire Dales.  It was designed by WRE for Water Power Enterprises, and has been completed to a very high standard by the team involved. Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:48:07 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry46 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry45 WRE has acted as lead consultant at this project.  WRE carried out the licensing and planning, and the tender for design and build was won by Spaans, who are about to deliver the system to client TFGM (formerly GMPTE) Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:45:13 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry45 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry44 The 99kW scheme at Mapledurham mill is now underway, designed by WRE, with construction by Greenfords, and turbine from Rehart, supplied by UK agents MPCL. Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:36:26 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry44 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry43 Owing to continued high demand for its services, the company is now seeking to recruit a civil engineer to fill a permanent post working within our small friendly team on hydro scheme design For more information please email Mrs Yvette Elliott, Project Administrator on yvette@westernrenew.co.uk   Tue, 17 May 2011 15:44:10 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry43 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry1 The eight hydro schemes which WRE regularly maintains for clients in Devon and Cornwall have been generating at maximum capacity recently, although these last few weeks have brought massive volumes of leaves and debris as well. This has meant extra work for the screening systems, but when there is so much water available it is important to keep output at maximum. It is good to see water levels up, after what has been a fairly dry early part of the year. WRE’s directly employed construction team are just completing a system at Cotehele for the National Trust, and the good standard of finish required by the trust is evident on this site. We look forward to the handover, and adding the site to our list of operating sites. At the other end of the country, another scheme designed by WRE is taking shape. The Bainbridge hydro system in the Yorkshire Dales was designed by us, and is being built for the community based owning group by contractor A E Yates, with h2oPE as project managers. WRE looks forward to further involvement at this site in the new year. Elsewhere WRE are acting as lead consultant for a screw turbine project in Rochdale. The client, GMPTE, is developing a new transport interchange, and WRE has developed the proposal for a turbine and fish pass at the site over the last eighteen months. The development is now under construction as a design and build project under the auspices of Spaans Babcock, with WRE regularly on site coordinating between the client and contractor. Meanwhile at sites from Dartmoor to the Peak District small systems are being installed, with the owners carrying out much of the actual construction, with WRE designing it, and installing the powerhouse equipment under the MCS process. These projects demonstrate that WRE is able to help clients in a range of professional roles, from design and construction with our in house team, to complete system design with construction put to tender, or high level coordination of projects delivered via design and build methods. Which is the best route to take mainly depends on the client, and there is a broad range in the industry, WRE believes that our independence and flexibility is a key benefit. Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:40:06 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry1 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry2 Hydro visit Torrs Hydro, a 63kW system installed by WRE in 2008 was honoured to host a visit by Greg Barker (Minister for Climate Change) and the Regional Director for the Environment Agency on 28th October.  As well as visiting Torrs Hydro they visited the Co-op (powered by the system) before moving on to New Mills Town Hall for the Minister to formally announce ways in which the Government are going to help support community owned schemes like this.  There was wide coverage in the press. Council Place WRE senior engineer Chris Elliott was elected to the council of the British Hydropower Association at its recent AGM, and looks forward to pushing micro-hydro up the agenda. Developments Cotehele’s new hydro system is nearing completion, the turbine was run for the first time last week, and should be generating in the coming week. Sat, 30 Oct 2010 18:34:40 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry2 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry3 MCS WRE is pleased to announce it is now listed as an MCS transition installer, and this allows us to design and install systems to receive the Feed-In-Tariff, and as such we will fully commission three schemes in the next month.  Sub-50kW systems designed or installed by a non-MCS installer will not be eligible for the FIT. Installations Update WRE has recently ordered a second turbine from Ecowave Systems, a crossflow turbine to operate on 25m head on a site on Dartmoor, which should be generating in December.  This system is designed by WRE. Screening Equipment We have also supplied further Coanda type screens, as well as gaining future orders for more.  We have recently sold 10mm screening systems to fellow hydropower system designers Renewables First and Highland Eco Design for low head sites, and are about to start delivery of similar systems to the 6mm standard sometimes requested by the EA. Fri, 01 Oct 2010 10:45:31 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry3 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry4 WRE recently entered a team into a sponsored ‘Daredevil Challenge’ for the charity Devon Community Foundation, raising nearly £500 for this good cause.  Well done to all involved. Wed, 15 Sep 2010 09:34:50 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry4 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry5 As so often, whilst the summer brings mixed weather for tourists in the Westcountry, WRE is hard at work making use of the drier weather to carry out construction of hydro schemes.  We are working at two sites, one for the National Trust, is just starting, and another for a private client is moving toward completion. The private client has carried out most of the works himself, with WRE doing design and specification of the system, and fitting and commissioning the system.  The turbine is a very neat and compact machine from Ecowave Systems, which has been specified as it offered a small and quiet machine, at a good price from a UK supplier.  Pleasingly the delivery was relatively fast, and we will report on the performance of this model, as it is the first from this manufacturer that we have installed. The National Trust site is at Cotehele in Cornwall, and despite wet ground conditions and difficult access (as ever), progress is good.  WRE has designed and gained licenses for this site, and is doing all the installation and commissioning, in the coming months. This system uses a sturdy JLA turbine. Further work for the National Trust is continuing, with progress on sites in the Westcountry, hopefully which will lead to installation in 2011/12. Work for later in the year covers Screw, Crossflow and Pelton systems, with potentially hundreds of kW of installed capacity following in the next 12 months. Look out for the website updates shortly. Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:19:14 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry5 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry6 Sun, 01 Aug 2010 16:27:46 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry6 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry7 WRE has recently started construction of a 28kW hydro plant at Tipton St John in East Devon.  After a long licensing process, including a successful appeal a license was issued in June 2009.  The development has been assisted by the East Devon AONB Sustainable Development Fund, which provided significant assistance in moving the proposal through the long design process  Unfortunately, due to the tight restrictions on timing it was not possible to start construction until 2010.  However, after receiving the necessary Flood Defence Consent, Planning Permission, and carrying out the necessary ecological work, fish rescue and agreeing to the archaeological conditions, preparatory work finally got underway this week.  The undergrowth has been cleared, and the leat dredged, and with good ground conditions and weather concrete will be poured in the next couple of weeks.  Commissioning is anticipated to be in August, water flow permitting. Fri, 07 May 2010 16:41:41 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news#blogEntry7 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2010&blogMonth=03#blogEntry8 Feed in Tariff update The Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) is close to becoming law, and it is likely that it will be a requirement of all systems that they will need to be designed and installed by Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) approved installers, using approved equipment. The aim of the MCS is to provide consumer protection for schemes under 50kW output, in what is a fast developing market.  There has been some degree of resistance within the hydro community since many schemes are typically built with some owner input, but if approached carefully this can still be the case. WRE expects to enter the MCS scheme at its launch in the next few weeks, and has been accepted onto the REAL assurance scheme, which is a requirement.  We are expecting to be installing approved schemes from the start of April. We believe that the MCS scheme should provide consumer confidence, and it will be important that when looking at designing a hydro system you use an approved, professional firm from feasibility study onwards. Screening WRE is now offering more high quality screening equipment.  In addition to the automatic screeners which are being used increasingly for old mill sites, we are now manufacturing ‘Coanda’ type wedge wire screens, for high head schemes with small flows.  These are ideal as they require no power, are robust and long lasting.  Prices start from £1250 (+VAT) for a 20 l/s version. We are also manufacturing interface equipment to work with the popular SCS HGP hydro controller.  This is typically used to operate hydraulic systems where large flow control equipment is needed, such as in low head systems.  Email us for a quote. Installations WRE has completed work at a site in Devon where a single jet Pelton machine has been installed.  It is operating as expected, and producing absolutely at the top end of the design expectations of energy capture. WRE has recently placed orders for two more hydro systems for installation in 2010, a Screw turbine for a site in East Devon and a crossflow machine for another old mill site in Mid-Devon. The screw turbine system has been under development for some time, owing to difficulties in licensing, but this will now be delivered in June.  The system is a conventional concrete-trough screw turbine, with a number of design tweaks to boost efficiency.  WRE is the largest installer of Screw turbines in the UK, and is not tied to any manufacturer, meaning we are free to recommend the best machine for the job. The crossflow turbine is our first order from UK manufacturer Ecowave, who have been able to commit to an MCS approved machine in a short lead time.  The system will use 85 l/s on a 5 metre head, and should also be operating by mid-summer. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:05:12 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2010&blogMonth=03#blogEntry8 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2010&blogMonth=02#blogEntry9 WRE completed work at Dartington Tweed Mill last year; recently the BBC reported briefly on the site, which shows the simple nature of the adaptations.  The reporter talking to Dr Jon Rae from the Dartington Hall Trust is able to carry out his interview with almost no need to raise his voice, despite being right alongside to gearbox with the machine in operation.  The report is found at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/8539076.stm, with the video at the bottom. We have also confirmed the start of installation work at two further sites, a crossflow turbine for the National Trust, and a screw turbine for a private client, both to be running by mid 2010. Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:41:18 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2010&blogMonth=02#blogEntry9 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2010&blogMonth=01#blogEntry10 2010 has started briskly for WRE, with many projects progressing.  WRE has recently been appointed to carry out detailed design on a number of sizable and high profile hydro systems and has a further 7 abstraction applications submitted, ranging from 70 l/s to nearly 7000 l/s, and many schemes either formally submitted to planning or close to being so.  WRE has recently commissioned a community hydro scheme for Settle Hydro, via our ongoing relationship with Water Power Enterprises.  In addition to the planned installation work for the year, which will cover Pelton, Crossflow and Screw Turbine systems, WRE has taken on work for upgrade and maintenance work on a number of existing hydro schemes in the South West of England. WRE continues to contribute to industry panels on the Feed In Tariff, and looks forward to the formal announcements on the level of support in the next few weeks. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:26:50 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2010&blogMonth=01#blogEntry10 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=12#blogEntry11 The WRE office will be closed from 5pm on Wednesday 23rd December and re-opens on Monday 4th January. We wish you a very happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year. Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:39:14 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=12#blogEntry11 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=11#blogEntry12 We are pleased to introduce our new Project Engineer joining us from the Geographical Information Systems industry. Since graduating from Cardiff University with a BEng in Mechanical Engineering, Jessica worked in the water industry before gaining valuable experience in GIS. Having experience in project management as well as a working knowledge of pipes, pumps and penstocks, Jessica brings valuable knowledge to a highly skilled and growing team. Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:02:44 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=11#blogEntry12 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=10#blogEntry16 I had just completed my degree in Mechatronics and asked WRE for some work experience.  In the 6 weeks of work experience, I have seen a huge variety of engineering work. I was on site for 3 weeks, where I helped with the construction of a fish pass, maintenance of a launder, water wheel and weir.  I also saw the installation of the gearbox, generator and control system.  The other half of my time was spent in the office where I helped out with design work, including AutoCAD and SketchUp.  I found this work experience excellent because I saw how a project is completed from design to commissioning. The staff at WRE are very enthusiastic about micro hydro and are excellent people to work for.  They were very welcoming and allowed me to see all areas of micro hydro engineering.  The work was very interesting and all the staff were very helpful with any questions I had. I was interested in the area of micro hydro before I started my work experience with WRE and now on completing this, I am even more interested in this area and hope to work in this industry in the future. Kevin Smith Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:35:39 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=10#blogEntry16 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=10#blogEntry17 WRE completed the harnessing of the Dartington Hall Trust’s waterwheel in early October, shown below is the shaft coupling, gearbox and generator.  This is now generating power for the buildings, whist retaining the interesting historic feature of the wheel.  Whilst it is typically most sensible to replace such a wheel, since it had been maintained in good condition, it seemed logical to retain it and fit with a gearbox.  It is shown below before fitment of safety guarding. Work is also underway at what is likely to be the last installation of 2009, a small Pelton type turbine running off a healthy 55m of gross head.  WRE have carried out all design and licensing and are manufacturing Coanda type screening for the intake.  Dependant on delivery times, generation will commence just before or after the New Year. Tue, 27 Oct 2009 21:37:15 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=10#blogEntry17 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=09#blogEntry18 In good time for the migration season, the repair works to Dartington Weir are complete, and the first fish are returning to the pools.  The wheel will soon be back to work, generating power for the fist time in many decades. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:39:24 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=09#blogEntry18 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=09#blogEntry19 One current project being undertaken by WRE engineers is the repair of a fish pass on a tributary of the River Dart in south Devon.  In addition to winning the contract to repair and put the mill’s waterwheel back to work generating electricity, WRE negotiated the licenses and carried out the redesign of the fish pass.  This will repair bypassed and washed out sections of the structure, as well as improving water depths and easing fish movement.  This site is a small ex-mill site, and the fish pass work is a worthwhile improvement to fish passage, at modest cost, as well a protecting the adjacent A385 main road.  All works will be completed for the upstream migrants to use at the end of September.  Part of the existing structure is shown below after dewatering. Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:39:54 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=09#blogEntry19 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=08#blogEntry20 WRE is supplying fully stainless steel automatic fish and debris screens, ideal for small abstractions where head loss need to be avoided.  A recent customer was a site with a small ‘Powerpal’ machine running on under 2m of head.  The screen is designed to pass 200 l/s, and is an example of the standard screen, with a wetted area of around 1.5 square metres.  Installation takes around one man-day. Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:31:28 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=08#blogEntry20 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=07#blogEntry21 After six and a half weeks on site, WRE has commissioned a new hydro scheme in South Somerset.  Further information will follow when all landscaping and finishing works are completed. Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:38:30 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=07#blogEntry21 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=07#blogEntry22 Installation of the Ritz-Atro screw turbine in south Somerset has achieved a significant milestone with the installation of the mechanical equipment.  With the help of a 200 tonne capacity crane (to overcome the long distance from crane access to site), the machine slotted in easily.  The installation is on course to be ready for commissioning after eight working weeks from the first excavation, weather permitting! Sun, 05 Jul 2009 20:31:36 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=07#blogEntry22 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=06#blogEntry23 WRE has installed the country’s first Rehart screw turbine.  The building works were carried by a local firm, and WRE is responsible for the installation and commissioning of the machine.  The small machine is fitted within an existing pump house, which required careful use of crane and manual lifting gear to fit under the roof.  Commissioning has not yet occurred, as the intake and outfall need to be connected, as well as restoration of the carefully dismantled wall of the pump house.  Once this has occurred, the system will start generating power. Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:11:36 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=06#blogEntry23 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=06#blogEntry24 WRE Ltd has today learned that it has been successful in appealing against an abstraction license issued last year. The license as granted was for less than 50% of the volume applied for, and this made the project uneconomic. However, it was felt that a balanced decision was not made, and so WRE decided to appeal to test the policy. In issuing directions to the EA to grant the license substantially as applied for, the inspector noted: “Benefits for renewable energy of setting a Hands Off Flow at Q95 and allowing a higher maximum rate of flow are direct and clear… the case for a more restrictive approach has leant heavily on arguments about up river migration of Salmon and Sea Trout.  However linkage between facilitating up river migration with restricting water abstraction on the basis of hands off flow and through a limit on maximum flow is neither direct nor clear” “Balancing a situation producing clear and identifiable benefits for generation of renewable energy against an alternative which has putative but not clearly defined benefits for up stream migration, my judgement comes down firmly in favour of the position taken in the original application.” The inspector continues “while I have been provided with a copy of the as yet unpublished draft Good Practice Guidelines, in view of the way the BHA has distanced itself from the contents, the weight that I attach to it is limited.”  He referred to the EA’s application of these guides in this case as “a bludgeon: by that I mean an over-weight instrument, likely to have a poorly directed and uncertain effect”. We are very pleased with the outcome and look forward to realizing the full potential of this site. Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:59:39 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=06#blogEntry24 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry25 WRE has continued to secure further Abstraction Licenses for small hydro schemes.  Two new licenses issued this week will allow planning of schemes to move to the next phase; these sites include a small site with 50m of head, which emphasises how WRE work with all sizes and types of micro-hydro equipment.  Installation at this site will be lead by the site owner, to construction drawings from WRE.  We will also supply and install all powerhouse equipment. Sat, 23 May 2009 15:17:38 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry25 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry26 One week into the construction of a new ultra-low head hydro scheme in South Somerset, and the system is taking shape.  WRE is responsible for the majority of the installation, and is carrying out the civil work currently.  The system is a 23kW peak output, on a very modest 1.6m head, and is utilising a screw turbine.  Construction is occurring in two phases, to make use of the best weather and to account for turbine delivery times.  After an initial 3 week phase to construct the concrete works, WRE will move to another site to install and commission a smaller screw system, before returning in late June to complete the works. Sat, 23 May 2009 15:05:31 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry26 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry27 WRE has recently commissioned a new hydro system on Dartmoor.  The site is typical of the myriad of small mill sites which once dotted the country, and most of which are not currently harnessing the latent power available.  The site has been installed as a joint effort between the site owner and WRE.  Our input has been in specifying, supplying and installing fish and debris screening, as well as all aspects of the electrical and mechanical equipment.  The 5.5kW system has generated power, and awaits only a few finishing touches to the old leat system before full switch-on. WRE is close to launching a new programme aimed specifically aimed at small mill sites, which suffer from high costs when a conventional bespoke design process is used.  WRE has the experience to offer ‘standard technical packages’ for a range of sites which will guarantee depth and quality of the design, as well as reducing uncertainty and total costs.  We will launch the HEADstart package in the next few weeks. Sat, 23 May 2009 14:28:19 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry27 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry28 WRE Ltd is pleased to announce that we have introduced a standard stainless steel automatic screener.  We have been manufacturing these products on a one off basis for sites for a number of years, but have now introduced a standard sizing of screen for moderate sized abstractions (around 50 to 250 litres per second for the standard model, and up to 500 litres per second at an additional extra cost), which has allowed a higher specification to be offered at a lower price.  The screeners have a stainless steel construction for the supporting framework, and employ a sturdy 10mm stainless steel mesh conveyor.  Use is made of laser cut parts to optimise quality, and standard interchangeable mesh and drive components.  These screeners are particularly suitable for old mill sites where it is important to minimise head loss, as well as fit within existing structures.  The first deliveries of these products have been made, and are operational.  The systems are available with a 4 week lead time, and cost £1,800 ex-works. The screeners will form part of a complete standardised design and technical package to be launched shortly by WRE Ltd, to drive down costs and maximise the potential from small output, medium head sites in the region of 2 to 10kW.  We believe that the conventional approach to bespoke design of systems becomes a problem at these small sites where high feasibility and design costs can swamp projects and owners.  Look out for full details in the near future. Fri, 01 May 2009 10:54:28 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=05#blogEntry28 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=02#blogEntry29 WRE has placed an order for the first Rehart turbine in England.  The Compact Enclosed type screw turbine will be installed later in the summer on a small site with only 1.4m of head.  This location would, until recently, have been seen as both technically and economically unfeasible. WRE continues to work with screw manufacturer Ritz-Atro, having gained a contract to commission a well publicised community project at Settle in North Yorkshire, which uses a machine from this company. Other new installations which are planned for 2009 include a small crossflow machine for Morden Mill at the National Trust’s Cothele estate.  This will form a development of the historic use of waterpower on the site, and the work has been awarded despite another hydropower consultancy carrying out the feasibility study.  WRE were able to guarantee a system with a shorter lead time and at a lower cost.  The project is expected to be generating during November 2009. Wed, 11 Feb 2009 09:02:21 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=02#blogEntry29 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=02#blogEntry30 We are delighted to introduce our new Project Engineer, who has joined us from civil engineers Mott MacDonald Ltd.  Since graduating from Cardiff University with an MEng in Civil Engineering, Rupert has worked on civil engineering projects in the UK and abroad. With experience of flood risk assessments, infrastructure design, on-site supervision and financial management, Rupert will bring very relevant skills to the company as a valued addition to the team. Tue, 03 Feb 2009 08:58:28 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=02#blogEntry30 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=01#blogEntry31 2009 looks set to be another busy year for Western Renewable Energy, with various hydro schemes progressing through the design and licensing phases and reaching the construction period.  We also have many new sites to investigate across the country. We are now working from a new, larger office at Old Walls to allow the company to continue expanding with the market and accommodate the larger workforce required to design and manage our ongoing schemes dealing with up to 10 cumecs of water. Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:28:30 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2009&blogMonth=01#blogEntry31 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=10#blogEntry32 Western Renewable Energy are looking for a Project Engineer to join the team. Application deadline 5pm, Friday 31st October 2008. For more information visit http://www.regensw.co.uk/south-west-england/jobs or email yvette@westernrenew.co.uk for a job description and person specification. Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:10:52 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=10#blogEntry32 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=09#blogEntry33 The hydro-electric scheme and fish pass designed and installed by WRE Ltd at New Mills has been nominated for an award by the Environment Agency as an example of complimentary work between two industries often see as having potentially opposing objectives. The Wild Trout Trust Conservation Award 2008 recognises and encourages excellence in the growing field of wild trout habitat management and conservation, and celebrates the efforts, ingenuity and imagination of those involved. Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:00:00 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=09#blogEntry33 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=09#blogEntry34 Commissioning has taken place at New Mills, Derbyshire and the Archimedean Screw turbine is now fully operational after 6 months of construction by WRE Ltd. The completed project can be compared to the original artist’s impression, which was drawn prior to commencement of the construction phase. See the local press report for more information. Fri, 05 Sep 2008 12:00:00 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=09#blogEntry34 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=09#blogEntry35 Following the success of the JLA crossflow turbine at Ugbrooke, WRE Ltd has just placed an order for another, larger machine for a new client in Devon, which will be delivered in April 2009. Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:00:00 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=09#blogEntry35 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=08#blogEntry36 River Dart Country Park green credentials recognised – see the article on the BBC news website. Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:00:00 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=08#blogEntry36 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=07#blogEntry37 The third Archimedean Screw to be installed by WRE Ltd has now been ordered, and installation begins in May 2009 at Ilchester, Somerset. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:00:00 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=07#blogEntry37 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=03#blogEntry38 WRE Ltd is currently engaged in an exciting new project to install an Archimedean Screw Turbine on the River Goyt at New Mills, High Peak. Please see our case study for more information. Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:00:00 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=03#blogEntry38 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=01#blogEntry39 WRE Ltd has commissioned a 4kW crossflow hydro scheme at Ugbrooke Park, Chudleigh for Lord Clifford. This project was designed and installed by WRE Ltd, with the construction phase taking just under 4 months. To find out more please view our case study. Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:00:00 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2008&blogMonth=01#blogEntry39 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2007&blogMonth=11#blogEntry40 The River Dart Country Park wins the DEBI Award in their Renewable Energy category. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 12:00:00 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2007&blogMonth=11#blogEntry40 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2007&blogMonth=11#blogEntry41 WRE Ltd is working with water power enterprises on a number of low head hydro schemes throughout Yorkshire and Derbyshire. Water Power Enterprises has recently received planning permission for their scheme at New Mills, High Peak, on the river Goyt. Construction is expected to start in earnest in March 2008. Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:00:00 CET http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2007&blogMonth=11#blogEntry41 http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2007&blogMonth=10#blogEntry42 The Archimedean screw turbine at Ashburton, installed in 2006/2007 by Western Renewable Energy, Castleford Engineering and GP Electronics has been shortlisted for two green energy awards, the Devon Environmental Business Initiative (DEBI Awards) and the Regen South West awards. Mon, 01 Oct 2007 12:00:00 CEST http://westernrenew.co.uk/wre/news?blogYear=2007&blogMonth=10#blogEntry42