WORK on taking down the ten turbines from the UK's first commercial wind farm in Delabole began on Sunday, to be replaced by four larger, more powerful units — and leading the UK into its second generation of onshore wind power.

Delabole Wind Farm was built by the Edwards family in 1991 as a greener alternative to plans for a nuclear power station in the area. Since 2002 it has been owned and operated by the 100 per cent renewable electricity supplier, Good Energy, which is investing £11.8 million to repower it.

The new wind farm will have a total combined capacity of 9.2MW — enough to supply over 7,800 homes with electricity and more than double the previous output.

Juliet Davenport, founder and CEO of Good Energy, said: "Delabole wind farm is a fantastic example of homegrown energy. By increasing capacity, we can contribute to Cornwall's renewable energy targets, increase price stability for Good Energy's own electricity supply business and take an essential step towards helping the UK achieve a 100 per cent renewable future.

"Thanks to the hard work of Good Energy's committed team, the unwavering support of Good Energy's customers and Delabole residents, we've been able to do this together."

She added: "Good Energy believes that homegrown electricity produced from a network of independent renewable generators throughout the UK is better for our future energy security as well as helping to cut our carbon emissions."

The Good Energy team will be available at the site during both the decommissioning and the installation of the new turbines.

Anyone wishing to visit the site must let the Good Energy team know in advance due to the strict health and safety measures of the construction site, by emailing Jess, at [email protected]">[email protected], John at [email protected]">[email protected] or calling 01249 766770.