With the advent of home photovoltaic (PV) electric generation and feed-in tariffs, NFD has received a number of enquiries from Park residents about how it works within the context of the Park Community.
NFD, as the Park’s electricity supplier and distributor, is contracted to Findhorn Wind Park (FWP) for its sole supply of electricity. FWP are the 4 wind turbines located to the East of the Park and was established to provide ecologically sustainable renewable energy for every household in the community. A clause in our contract with FWP stipulates that NFD can only purchase electricity from them.
Therefore, the decision rests with FWP for anyone wishing to export electricity to NFD, as we have to gain permission from FWP to accept it into our distribution network.
Where permission is granted, NFD choose not to purchase this PV exported electricity as it feels the feed-in tariff individual’s will receive is already significantly compensated (41.3p per kWh p.a. for each generated unit).
Before the advent of feed-in tariffs FWP has allowed NFD to purchase electricity from 406, Field of Dreams and Moray Art Center in the spirit of demonstration.
A final note of reference in the ongoing debate over renewable energy is a recent article in the guardian newspaper.