Global Forum for Sports and Environment
MCFC Seeks Green Light on Environmentally-Friendly Power Plans
The proposals have been put forward by Manchester City Football Club, who have been in discussions with a number of potential partners to develop a package of renewable energy and recycling measures for Sportcity in East Manchester. The renewable energy scheme at Sportcity, which could include a range of environmentally-friendly energy saving initiatives including a wind turbine to generate electricity, the recycling of water and the use of solar power, could power at least 4,000 homes in the area. The proposed 85-metre high wind turbine would include a viewing platform and a ‘green energy’ classroom. If the initiative gets the green light, any home or business in Manchester could buy their power from the project at a similar cost to their current supplier. In association with Ecotricity, the company who manufactures the wind turbines, Manchester residents could access environmentally friendly electricity from wind turbines around the country. Councilor Neil Swannick, Executive Member for Planning and the Environment at Manchester City Council said: “This is a very exciting proposal, not only for the obvious environmental reasons but because it will continue the long history of energy production on the site. Historically East Manchester took the lead in taking Manchester into industrialization, therefore it is fitting that the area could yet again be pioneering by providing wind turbine generated electricity to homes and businesses in the city.” Pete Bradshaw, Social Responsibility Manager for Manchester City Football Club said: "The wind turbine project represents a wonderful and exciting opportunity for the ongoing development of the iconic Sportcity and City of Manchester Stadium, helping Manchester to achieve significant carbon emission reductions and so work towards Manchester becoming the greenest, cleanest and coolest city on Earth - as set out in the Climate Change Pledge. The wind turbine is a significant part of a range of energy efficiencies and recycling projects that the Club is involved in though its award-winning community and social responsibility projects. People across Manchester will be able to buy into the 100 per cent renewable energy produced when we announce affinity deals with our partner, Ecotricity. It is our hope that the turbine will be built and operational before the end of 2006." The proposal will be subject to planning requirements and further detailed discussions with Manchester City Council and New East Manchester Ltd. It is anticipated that the wind turbine could be operational by the start of the 2006-2007 football season. SOURCE; Manchester City Council http://www.manchester.gov.uk/index.htm |
Manchester City Council has considered proposals that, if given the go-ahead, would make The City of Manchester Stadium the first sports stadium in the world to be powered solely by renewable energy.