Wadebridge Renewable Energy Network (WREN) based in Wadebridge, Cornwall, is a grass roots social enterprise aiming to transform the area into the first solar powerered and renewable energy powered town in the UK.[1][2] The group plans to install 1 MW peak capacity of solar panels; with ten installations already in place and another ninety planned[3] they hope to generate at least a third of its electricity from solar and wind power by 2015.[4]
The WREN Steering Group consists of residents, councillors from Cornwall Council and Wadebridge Town Council, together with representatives of the Wadebridge Chamber of Commerce.[5]
The scheme could also generate £450,000 a year for the town with money coming from a Feed-in tariff which offers a premium price for renewable energy.[6] The county council has granted planning permission for four new solar farms and sent plans for a further five out for consultation.[7]