| Type | Limited company |
|---|---|
| Industry | Energy |
| Founded | 1996 |
| Headquarters | Barrow-in-Furness, England |
| Key people | David Eastlick, Chairman |
| Products | Wind energy projects |
| Website | baywind.co.uk |
Baywind Energy Co-operative was the first co-operative to own wind turbines in the United Kingdom.
Baywind was modelled on the similar wind turbine cooperatives and other renewable energy co-operatives that are common in Scandinavia,[1] and was founded as an Industrial and Provident Society in 1996. It now has over 1,300 members, each with one vote. A proportion of the profits is invested in local community environmental initiatives through the Baywind Energy Conservation Trust. The organisation won the 2004 National Social Enterprise Award for its innovative approach to community owned renewable energy.[2]
Baywind currently own a 2.5 megawatt five-turbine wind farm at Harlock Hill near Ulverston, Cumbria (operational since 29 January 1997), and one of the 600 kilowatt turbines at the Haverigg II wind farm near Millom, Cumbria.
Since Baywind's establishment, further wind energy co-operatives have been established.
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