Vattenfall is seeking local advice about investing the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre’s (EOWDC) GBP 3 million community investment fund, set up to benefit locals in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and the Blackdog area in Scotland.
Besides responding to a questionnaire , locals will be able to discuss thoughts and ideas with the members of the EOWDC project team at an exhibition in February in Balmedie Library and Aberdeen Central Library.
“The EOWDC Community Fund is a substantial amount of money which can make a big difference to a lot of people. We are capturing a natural resource and empowering local communities. But what should be prioritised? How can we maximise its value? We want local people to tell us what they think. This is a fund for you; designed by you,” Adam Ezzamel , Vattenfall’s Project Director for the EOWDC, said.
Last year, Vattenfall announced it is setting up the GBP 150,000-a-year EOWDC fund which will run for the operational life of the wind farm, expected to be 20 years.
As Scotland’s largest offshore wind test and demonstration center, the 92.5MW wind farm will trial next-generation technology and is expected to contribute to driving down the cost of clean power.
“The EOWDC embraces innovation – it would be great if the fund could also take an innovative approach,” Ezzamel said.
Located some three kilometers off Aberdeen, EOWDC, also known as the Aberdeen offshore wind farm, will comprise eleven MHI Vestas 8.4MW turbines scheduled for installation in March.
The wind farm is expected to generate first power in the summer this year.