Ongoing projects
A Wind Turbine For Moretonhampstead? by Bridget Brown 80% of the electricity that we generate in this country is lost in distribution so producing electricity close to the point of use is far more efficient. We could all put a little windmill on our houses and install solar panels, or we could communally invest in one large turbine which could serve the whole of Moreton and would preserve the character of our town. These turbines are very large and need to be sited away from dwellings and in a very exposed site, probably on top of a hill. I feel sure that we could find a suitable site within a couple of miles of Moreton. Opinions are very divided as to the environmental impact of wind turbines, but we are not talking about a wind farm, just one turbine - it could look quite majestic! I understand that one turbine can produce enough electricity for at least 800 homes, which should be sufficient for Moreton Parish. We would be tied into the national grid - windpower does not work when there is no wind - equally there will be times when an excess can be sold back. Totnes have done a lot of research into wind turbines, the cost, available grants and the chances of getting planning permission. Being in a National Park may affect our position, but I feel it is something well worth exploring. If anyone is interested in pursuing this idea, or could help in any way, please contact Bridget Brown, Peck Farm, TQ13 8QU. email bridgetandrichard(at)hotmail(dot)com
Moreton’s Peak Oil Party by Aaron Custance This will be a fun event in which everyone can participate – a celebration of all the good things an abundance of oil has brought us, the recognition that this particular ‘party’ is drawing to a close, and sharing plans and visions for how we can continue to enjoy a high quality of life (or even better) from this time. There could be a ‘festival’ type feeling with games and activities such as an altar dedicated to the V8 Range Rover and leisure rides (with info about CO2 consumption etc), a ‘Barrel of Oil’ display (half empty – yes, we’ve used half), bio-fuel info and displays, a mock-up of the co-op as a ‘bring and buy’ produce market, the front page off a hand-printed ‘News In Moreton 2050’ with stories of the day, musical tributes, etc. The idea is to laugh at ourselves and our situation, stimulate awareness and discussion, and make new plans with lively hearts. If you are interested in being involved in organising this event, please contact Aaron at aaron.custance(at)virgin(dot)net.
Powerdown Day by Aaron Custance This is intended to draw attention to the vulnerabilities of our local area to a shortage (or interruption) of fuel and electricity. The idea is for those participating to turn the electricity off for, say, the daylight hours of a particular day. This would stimulate thought on “how much is the minimum we could get by on, and what is it needed for?” If you are interested in being involved in organising this event, please contact Aaron at aaron.custance(at)virgin.net.
Visioning Group for a Future Eco-Community by Julia Brightwell There are many ways to start creating a sustainable community in harmony with nature and its members, one of which is using the technique of visioning.
A first meeting will be arranged where everyone will meditate or focus on their ideal community and share in discussion the outcome of these inner journeys - writing a list of common key aspects to what we see as our future community. More than one type of community may arise and it is important to feel fully supported of your individual choice of community, even if you are initially the only one with this vision.
These shared vision(s) can be developed at a second meeting. Each person attending can bring pictures/photos that illustrate the key elements of their chosen community - the shared (or their individual) vision - and then make a group or individual dream board (this will entail bringing a large piece of card, pritt stick, key words, pens and pictures).
If you are interested in coming to two meetings then preferably e-mail Julia at jewel(at)juliabrightwell33.wanadoo.co.uk
NB -you can come to the initial meeting then decide if you want to come to the second one, but you cannot come to the second meeting if you are unable to attend the first - as it is a two step process.