SETTLE COMMUNITY WIND PROJECT

ACTION ON CLIMATE EMERGENCY SETTLE AND AREA / SETTLE ENERGY LOCAL CLUB

BACKGROUND

In 2024, Settle Energy Local Club (SELC), in partnership with Action on Climate Emergency Settle and Area (ACE), appointed d3associates to carry out a wind turbine feasibility study for a proposed site on the outskirts of Giggleswick. SELC’s objective is to implement a mix of renewable energy technologies to achieve a more balanced daily and year-round energy generation profile for the community.

Settle already benefits from established local renewable energy initiatives. In 2009, an Archimedes Screw turbine was installed at Settle Hydro on the River Ribble, delivering a peak output of 46kW. This installation feeds electricity into both the National Grid and, via private wire, to nearby residential flats. In 2023 alone, it generated 121MWh.

Further contributions to local renewable energy generation include community- owned solar PV arrays installed at Settle Area Swimming Pool - 20.8kWp in 2022, followed by a 27.5kWp extension in 2024.

Despite these efforts, achieving SELC’s ambition to meet approximately 30% of local electricity demand with sustainable, decarbonised energy requires larger- scale generation. To explore this, the Settle community took part in a two-day public consultation in 2022, using a model developed by the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England. This initiative assessed local energy needs and viable green energy options, culminating in the development of a Local Area Energy Plan.

OUTCOME

Following local consensus to explore wind power and agreement with landowners on a potential site, d3associates was commissioned to deliver a Stage 1 Feasibility Study funded by the York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority Shared Prosperity Fund. Acting as Project Manager, Technical Advisor, and Planning Lead, we produced a comprehensive report comprising:

• A wind energy options appraisal

• Turbine constraints analysis

• Economic modelling to support a business case for funding

As part of the feasibility process, we initiated pre-application discussions with the local planning authority and secured quotations for the specialist studies required at the next stage of development. Given the site’s sensitive location, early engagement with statutory bodies, including Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, Forest of Bowland National Landscape, and Natural England, was prioritised.

The study concluded that there is potential for medium-scale wind turbine development at the proposed site. However, key challenges identified include securing a viable grid connection and addressing the visual impact of the turbines - both significant factors in the project’s future viability.

The feasibility study culminated in the preparation and submission of a funding application to the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Mayoral Investment Fund - Carbon Negative Challenge Fund.