Nissan to generate own electricity

Nissan is seeking permission to build a wind farm in the middle of its Sunderland plant. The car maker proposes to power the factory with seven wind turbines, capable of producing enough electricity to power the equivalent of 2,600 homes.

Nissan said using wind power would enable it to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 10,000 tonnes a year. The turbines would be installed on low-lying ground within the plant boundaries in an effort to minimise their visual impact.

“The wind farm is central to our aim of cutting power plant emissions and generating energy in a safe and environmentally friendly manner,” said Nissan Motor UK’s chief engineer Graham Bagley.

“In light of steeply rising energy prices, the farm would also provide an annual cost saving to Nissan Motors UK, helping it to remain commercially competitive.”

If planning permission is granted, the project will be completed by autumn 2005.