UK manufacturing export revenue increases by 45%
Figures expected to show UK market growth up by 25%
Small Wind Systems UK Market Report 2010 published
Industry growth predicted to soar with Government’s new feed-in-tariffs

The second annual International Small Wind Conference (ISWC 2010) organised by RenewableUK, the UK’s leading renewable energy association, is taking place in Glasgow from 27-28 April 2010. ISWC 2010 is set to be the biggest international small wind event ever held with over 700 delegates from more than 20 countries including China, Japan, Canada, US, Taiwan, Portugal, Holland and France.

The conference will see the launch of the industry’s Small Wind Systems UK Market Report 2010 which is expected to show record sector growth. The UK is already the second largest market in the world for small wind systems and the largest in Europe, with more than 20 UK turbine manufacturers supplying three quarters of demand for their home market. The figures from the report will reveal that Britain continues to lead the way in this field with the small wind market expanding by 25% on previous records to install 8.6MW in 2009. Manufacturing market revenues now stand at £17million with the sector providing almost 1800 jobs in the UK.

Compared with 2008 figures, UK manufacturing export rose by 45% to £8million providing an economic boost for the country. Helped by a weaker pound sterling this success equates to a 180% increase in export trade over the last three years.

RenewableUK predicts the Government’s new feed-in-tariffs could lead to further significant growth if the small wind sector is granted, as promised, a General Permitted Development Order (GPDO). This allows homeowners and businesses to install a small wind system without the need to obtain prior planning permission. Feed-in-tariffs have made installing a small wind turbine both financially and environmentally attractive. The installer can now reduce their energy bills, earn an income from supplying the grid with any surplus generated electricity and lower their carbon footprint.

Alex Murley, Head of Small Systems at RenewableUK said: “The UK continues to be one of the best places in the world to install small wind systems providing you can obtain the necessary planning permission. Excellent wind resource, new financial incentives and a strong home manufacturing sector are helping the UK to consolidate its position as a world leader of this technology. Success at home is now being followed by success abroad with UK small wind manufacturers becoming a major force in fast-expanding international markets.”