Finance

Turbines are expensive.

If sited well and with a good grid connection a turbine can be expected to pay for itself in 7 years.

Conventional finance is riddled with complications.

Various flavours of equity share are requested by finance providers.

There is eagerness to support renewables from those arranging carbon offset schemes.

The R-Wind concept is not the normal way of doing business and it may take time to attract a supportive Bank or Building Society.

It depends on flexibility and being open to new ideas.

There may be reluctance to support wind turbines as there are some very vocal and influential opponents.

Now in 2008, public opinion is still far from 100% convinced that the science behind global warming is correct although all but a very few scientists have no doubt.

In 3 years time, when R-Wind could be open for business, things will have changed and the appreciation of the need for renewables will be more elevated. Turbines will be more accepted as the right way to go. Community schemes will be more attractive.

I hope R-Wind and its supporters will be ready for the challenge.