Quiet Revolution makes a big impact on micro energy regeneration

18/03/08

A revolutionary wind turbine capable of producing energy in urban areas is set to put Wales firmly on the global renewable energy map as a result of the Quiet Revolution Group choosing Pembroke Dock as the site of its manufacturing plant.

The vertical axis wind turbine provides micro generation capabilities to properties in urban, commercial and industrial settings without impacting on the local environment.

A £1.2million funding package has been secured from Finance Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government, HSBC and Quiet Revolution, which should see Quiet Revolution Manufacturing producing up to 300 turbines per annum in the current plant. The company is set to create 30 jobs over the next eighteen months.

Ieuan Wyn Jones, Welsh Assembly Government Minister for the Economy and Transport, welcomed the investment that would create new jobs in Pembrokeshire and also help put Wales on the map as a growing centre for the development of sustainable renewable energy projects.

“Sustainable energy markets are growing rapidly and there is particular interest in micro-generation and renewable energy solutions that are integrated into buildings delivering environmental benefits.

“Quiet Revolution, which invests substantially in research and development, has developed a highly innovative product and I am pleased the Assembly Government has been able to support the company to establish its manufacturing operation in Wales.”

Andrew Cox, Production Director at Quiet Revolution, said: “Our vertical axis turbine offers key advantages over conventional horizontal versions, including better performance in an urban setting, low noise levels and improved aesthetics, which are key drivers in a planning decision.”

The design of the turbine means it can be incorporated into existing buildings or new builds, providing renewable energy to households and businesses.

Rhian Pugh Investment Executive at Finance Wales, a provider of commercial funding to SMEs in Wales, said: “Micro energy generation is becoming more and more important within the UK and globally, with climate change and renewable energy high on the political agenda.”

She added: “The ability to generate electricity on-site means companies and developers can meet various government legislation, have security of energy supply and highlights their corporate social responsibility. Renewable Energy is a growth sector and we are seeing an increasing amount of investment opportunities in this area.”

Quiet Revolution will employ around 30 people at Pembroke Dock where the new turbine will be built and distributed to customers throughout the world as sales increase. A further 100 sites have planning approved and will be installed once the turbines are manufactured. These sites include large retailers, government buildings, schools and universities across the UK.