GrassrootsRenewable Energy


There has been a growing recognition that our long-term energy needs have to be met from renewable energy sources. Supplies of oil, gas and coal are fast diminishing, and nuclear power brings substantial risks and problems and is itself reliant on a finite resource.


There is also worldwide acceptance now of the dangers of ‘global warming’ (due to the greenhouse effect of increasing levels of CO2 and other gases in our atmosphere). It is recognised that we must act now to halt this increase if we are not to leave our children’s children with a legacy they cannot reverse.

Violent storms, rising temperatures, melting ice caps and raised sea levels will all have a profound effect on our natural environment, our wildlife, our lifestyle and our ability to exist on this earth.

The Government has set targets for the UK to generate 10% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2010, and 20% by 2020. These targets can only be achieved if we are all prepared to contribute to a more sustainable future by making use of renewable energy sources at a local level. Individual houses, farms, industrial units and community groups in the South Hams are all capable of tapping into natural energy sources – such as solar thermal, photovoltaic solar electric, wind power, wood, & other biofuels, ground source heat or hydroelectric power.

There is plenty of information around regarding these processes and suppliers of equipment. What have not been so readily available are

good examples of local installations, and access to people who will show you what works and what doesn’t. Grassroots aims to remedy this situation by providing details of local examples of renewable energy in action – and which ones you can visit to find out more.