Antinuclear

Barclays Bank backing renewable energy farm schemes

Barclays launches fund on back of farmers investing in renewable energy, Green energy news – by Sarah Johnson, 5th September 2011, New research has revealed a surge in farmers expected to invest in green energy this year to cut energy bills and generate greater incomes and returns on investments.The research by Barclays Bank shows 37 per cent of the UK’s 200,000 farmers are expected to invest in renewable energy this year.
The bank has launched a £100 million fund to encourage farmers to embrace renewable energy schemes. 

“Over the years farmers have struggled with low commodity prices and increasing costs, and Barclays has already supported many farmers as they seek new ways of making money,” said Travers Clarke-Walker, Product and Marketing director for Barclays Business. “Renewable energy production offers farmers a further opportunity to develop their businesses and add to their traditionally vital roles of producing food and managing the countryside.”

By installing renewable electricity schemes, farmers can expect to create an average return on investment of £25,000 per year through the Government’s Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme, according to Barclays.

Eco Environments, a leading renewable energy provider, says interest from farmers to use these energy sources that commonly come in the form of solar panels and wind turbines has “gone through the roof”.

“We are currently speaking to dozens of farmers in England and Wales who have either given the go ahead to a renewable energy project or are seriously considering one,” said David Hunt, a director of Eco Environments……
Barclays fundThe Barclays fund has been developed with sector specialists including the National Farmers Union (NFU) and is available for solar, wind and hydro projects.

“Farmers are extremely interested in diversifying and this is completely compatible with the traditional business of a farm,” said Jonathan Scurlock, chief advisor for the NFU.
renewable energy | news | Barclays launches fund on back of farmers investing in renewable energy

September 6, 2011 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Uncategorized