Our vision for community-owned climate-friendly flexibility services for Ivybridge

In November SDCE became aware of a planning application for a gas peaking power station in Ivybridge. We do not believe this is an appropriate technology in a climate emergency and subsequently launched a petition, commented on the planning application and began further conversations regarding the proposal.

We have spoken to WPD and understand that this substation has been identified as one that is open for flexibility services. We have also been assured that while we do need increased grid back up in this area, it is no worse than the rest of the WPD area.
 
Alternatively we would like to see solar PV for clean local renewable energy generation, batteries for flexibility and grid balancing, and an electric vehicle fast charging hub with a small café and pedestrian access to the town centre to cater for the imminent flood of EVs.
 
This is our vision.
 
Over the next few months we will be working hard to try and make this vision a reality, it will not be easy or straightforward, and it may not work, but that is a risk we take with innovative projects and new ideas. We will need to secure funding to determine the feasibility both in energy terms and financially. We will need to engage key stakeholders and the local community. We will need to continue to campaign against the construction of a gas peaking power station.

We hope you can join us on this exciting journey!

If you'd like to sign the petition to object to the construction of a gas peaking power station please click here.