Cost of low-power turbines take wind out of 2012 Olympics

THE proposed mini wind farm for the 2012 Olympics in East London is only going to generate enough electricity to run 310 computers, according to London Assembly members

By Mike Brooke

THE proposed mini wind farm for the 2012 Olympics in East London is only going to generate enough electricity to run 310 computers, according to London Assembly members.

An environmental impact assessment reveals the wind farm is likely to generate no energy at all at night, while if there are high winds it will have to be turned off because of noise.

Its seven proposed turbines are reportedly costing the taxpayer �140,000, the Assembly's Tory group points out.

"It is simply astonishing that public money can be wasted on such a meaningless gesture, especially during a national financial crisis," said Tory environment spokesman Gareth Bacon.

"These wind turbines should be scrapped if they cannot provide value for money and the money put to better use."

The turbines will generate a mere 0.28 per cent of the Olympics' total energy requirements, he points out.

The seven turbines are to be attached to lighting columns between the main Stadium and Aquatics centre, in addition to other wind turbines proposed at Eton Manor and Hackney Marshes.