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Green energy system launched on Scottish island

01 January 2008

The inhabitants of a remote Scottish island are preparing to enjoy mains electricity for the first time as 2008 approaches, as well as becoming some of the greenest energy users in the UK.

People living on the tiny Isle of Eigg have traditionally relied on bottled gas for their power needs, but will soon be using a triple-source electricity station which uses solar, wind and hydro-generated power, the Daily Express reports.

Described as "literally coming out of the dark ages" by Saira Renny, a member of the remote Hebridean community, the switch to "Eiggtricity" has been delayed until the new year due to poor weather and other commissioning problems.

"Mains electric is going to revolutionise life here - as well as cut power bills substantially," Ms Renny stated.

The islanders have donated a collective £100,000 to the renewable energy scheme, with other funding coming from the European Union, National Lottery and the Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company.

Nicol Stephen, the Liberal Democrat leader in Scotland, recently said that the government should concentrate on developing "clean, green renewable energy" in the country next year.

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