by Michael Smith (Veshengro)
At a launch on November 15, 2011 at the House of Commons in central London business leaders from the island and around the world laid out a vision for an 'Eco-Island'.
According to Eco Island Partnership founder and chief executive, David Green, the Isle of Wight can not only become energy self-sufficient but also be an energy exporter.
Mr Green explained: “I would like, for a minute, to transport you forward to a future where the Eco Island vision has become a reality.
“Driven by a dwindling supply of fossil fuel and utilizing a range of renewable sources including wind, solar, tidal, and geothermal power the Island has become totally self-sufficient in energy.
“Utilizing their smart grid and energy storage system the Island is able to balance it's supply and demand and has become a net energy exporter to the 'Big Island' to the north.”
The plan is backed by Government minister, Oliver Letwin, who told the launch it was a 'remarkable' example of the Big Society.
He said: “The huge well of local support has been strengthened by professionalism and skills and that's the very combination which will move mountains.”
For more information go to www.eco-island.org.uk.
© 2011
