Grimsby has transitioned from a major fishing capital to the renewable capital of energy. The town generates more electricity from solar, wind, biomass and landfill gas than anywhere else in England.
Research has found that 28% of the towns energy comes from green sources, putting Grimsby way ahead of second place Doncaster which produces 19% from renewable sources. In comparison Birmingham produces just 1.4% of its energy from green sources and London a mere 0.06%.
Although Grimsby is situated close to the largest offshore wind farm in Europe, the offshore turbines have not enhanced Grimsby's renewable statistics as the study excluded any sea-based turbine. However it is believed that the wind farms proximity has exposed locals to renewable energy more generally, and made them more inclined to adopt renewable energy initiatives.
Chris Holden, from the Advanced Industrial Solutions consultancy, commented: ''The offshore wind industry is offering the town new hope. It has breathed new life into the docks and given people an opportunity to celebrate themselves again... When the fishing industry died a lot of people lost their jobs, but those maritime skills remained in the town. So when the offshore wind farms started to be built, the local newspaper picked up on it, [seeing it] as a way that the town can grow and benefit. They regularly put it on the front page. That raised people’s awareness about renewable energy more generally. They started thinking, ‘Oh yeah, that offshore wind renewable energy stuff looks like it’s going well. I want to do well, so why don’t I put solar panels on the roof or invest in solar heating?'''
The town has also benefited from its industrial heritage, meaning that the town has a large number of engineers and manufacturers who are believed to be more likely to install green technology as they appreciate the cost savings it can bring.
Campaigners have praised the adoption of renewable technology in Grimsby. Head of advocacy at Christian Aid, Laura Taylor, commented: ''We can tackle climate change if enough of us want to. The science is proven. Time is short, but 100 per cent clean energy is well within our reach.''
