RENEWABLE energy co-operative Brendon Energy, based in Wiveliscombe, is about to launch its most ambitious project to date.

The group, having overseen the installation of 13 solar PV arrays on community buildings in Somerset, now has plans for a hydroelectric plant on the River Exe, near Bolham.

Brendon Energy hopes to generate 450,000 kWh of electricity a year using an efficient, wildlife-friendly Archimedes Screw turbine.

As with the existing installations this will also generate income, some of which will go into a community fund to benefit worthy causes in the area.

To provide the required capital, it is planned to launch a community share offer in the spring. This will give local people the chance to become co-owners of the hydro scheme – and earn interest from it – as well as having a say in how Brendon Energy is run, and help to combat climate change.

Anyone interested in finding out more is encouraged to attend a drop-in event at Tiverton Town Hall, on Saturday (January 21) starting at 2pm.