We have created a business that develops and finances small clusters of wind turbines, usually two or three at a time. We ensure that the benefits from renewable energy are shared with both the landowner and the local community. A group of three wind turbines could generate enough electricity to power up to 3,000 homes. Our aim is to build a strong relationship with the landowner and to engage the local community at an early stage in the project. Through events such as public exhibitions, open days, site visits, media events and press releases we give local people the opportunity to become informed about the project and to get involved in the consultation process. During the lifetime of the wind turbine cluster, the local community also receives a regular income to be invested within the community, as well as energy efficiency advice and products, information about the benefits of clean power, and educational materials for local schools.

The wind cluster business has generated large amounts of interest. The 10.4 MW (megawatt) Ferndale wind farm project, which obtained planning permission in 2005, is intended to be the first scheme built by the wind cluster business. The aim is for the wind farm to be owned jointly by E.ON UK and the Arts Factory, a local community group. The project will represent one of the largest partnerships between a community-owned organisation and the private sector ever seen in Wales. As well as this project we have a number of other wind cluster schemes in the pipeline.

In addition, the wind cluster business operates in a 'low-carbon' environment. The team continuously monitors its carbon footprint and has set yearly targets for carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission reductions. All CO₂ is offset by making contributions to an environmental trust which invests in sustainable energy and reforestation projects.