Green energy is about to visit Windsor Castle, via Romney weir on the River Thames, as two giant hydro-electric turbines are about to be lifted into place. The water current will generate the electricity required and should be fully operational by November, just in time to power the ancient castle through this winter.
Early in September the two giant 40-ton turbines, known as Archimedes Screws because they look like the screw developed by the ancient Greek mathematician of the same name, were delivered to Romney Weir on the River Thames. They are currently being lowered into place and connected up.
Apparently Prince Philip takes a keen interest in technology. A Buckingham Palace spokesman admitted that it has been something that they’ve been looking into for a number of years and just one of a number of green initiatives being introduced at royal residences by the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh. It’s unlikely to be able to power the castle entirely with green energy from the outset but it is hoped that it may become possible for the near future.
Proposals for developing hydroelectric power for Windsor Castle was considered back in 2007 but it took some time to get the permits through the Environmental Agency (EA). It was a new concept for them and they needed to be sure how such a project would affect navigation, flood control and river wildlife.
This is helping to make the point that the energy potential of weirs needs more consideration. As new technology becomes available weirs could play an increasingly important part in achieving Britain’s renewable energy goals.
The EA have already been working with Windsor and Maidenhead Council to investigate the possibilities of future projects for other weirs, including Marlow. Work is already underway at Goring and Osney weirs in Oxfordshire and is thought to present a great opportunity for developers and community groups to get involved too.