THIS year will see the continuation of some exciting changes for Okehampton College, with the possible development of two small-scale wind turbines.

The college hopes to become a showcase of how renewable energy can power a school, by using electrical self-sufficiency through hydroelectric and small-scale wind schemes.

The wind turbines would be situated on Ball Hill, away from houses so that their presence is not an issue.

Science teacher Keith Webber said: 'We are in a fairly unique position where we have hydroelectricity, wind and, of course, solar power available to us.

'In order to attract the funding to become a showcase energy school we would stand the best chance if we had some wind power too.

'After making some preliminary enquiries, it seems it may be worth our while submitting a formal planning application, but this is only going to make sense if we have a broad base of enthusiasm for our proposal.'

The college intends to hold a public meeting to discuss the proposal for turbines at a later date.

Mr Webber said: 'In financial terms we could expect to produce around 60 per cent of our electrical requirement each year from these two wind turbines.

'The wind and the hydro systems would, of course, be linked to our energy dashboard, along with our solar PV output.

'We want to place these on the high ground to the rear of the college and subject to observing certain points, we have the consent of the landowners and tenant.'

The turbines are Gaia 133 machines, producing a potential combined power of 22kW. The mast is 18 metres tall.

Mr Webber said the turbines could produce in the region of £20,000 to £25,000 worth of electricity each year for the college, as well as providing enormous educational benefit.

'An independent feasibility study confirms we would get a good yield at the proposed site.

'We have student and staff groups working on energy matters within the college.'

As well as aiming to produce electricity by renewable means, the college is continually looking at ways to reduce consumption.

Mr Webber said: 'Finding sustainable methods to generate electricity is becoming increasingly more important.

'If every community had to produce its own electricity, we would all start using it much more wisely.'

Mr Webber would like to hear from anybody who has a view on the college wind proposal, whether for or against it.

The Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths club at the college (STEM), has also helped to raise awareness of energy issues that has led to an impressive reduction in the amount of imported electricity at the college.

The college's acting principal, Derrick Brett, said: 'Many of the college students see energy conservation and the harnessing of renewable energy sources as a priority, and with energy costs likely to soar in the next few years, it is essential that we do what we can to keep our energy consumption down.

'The introduction of the wind turbines would supplement the energy already being generated by the photovoltaic cells within the college.

'At the same time it would raise the awareness of energy issues amongst students and provide excellent educational opportunities.'

Anyone who would like to attend the consultation can phone Keith Webber on 01837 650910 or email [email protected]">[email protected]

A date and time will be confirmed in due course.