PREPARE to be blown away by the ever-improving green credentials of Okehampton College — construction of their new wind turbine has now been completed.

As part of the school's drive to become energy-efficient, the college gained planning permission to erect two wind turbines on Ball Hill. The first of those has now been built, taking six weeks fully to construct.

College principal Daryll Chapman said: 'It is incredible to think that we have been able to realise this project, and it is worth reflecting on the many benefits provided.

'For over a month we had a team of four local workers on this project – all former pupils of the college who have done an excellent job for us.

'The wind turbine was installed by New Generation Energy, a West Devon supplier. The concrete foundation was sourced from Faheys of Okehampton and the ongoing servicing and maintenance will provide further local jobs.

'This is a truly local project providing local benefits in the future as well as electricity for the school.'

Over recent years the college has more than halved its dependence on fossil fuels with a number of renewable energy projects.

Douglas Mullins, a Year 12 student, said: 'The environmental projects here at the college are setting up future energy awareness for students here at the college.

'That is important work, so people know where their energy comes from, and learn more about how to reduce their energy consumption.

'It is good to see the turbine up on the hill, as a result from our work over the last six years at the college.'

The energy achievements of the college have garnered widespread recognition. Having already won the prestigious Ashden Award, the college is now listed in Sustainia 100, an international publication showcasing what are considered to be the world's leading sustainability projects.

In January the college won the European prize in the Global High School category of the Zayed Future Energy Prize, which recognises and rewards innovation, impact, leadership and long-term vision in renewable energy and sustainability.

The $100,000 prize money from the Zayed Future Energy Prize and a grant from the EDF Energy Green Fund has paid for the turbine. The Green Fund has awarded more than £5-million to renewable energy projects in the UK, with more than £2-million going to educational projects like that at Okehampton College.

Darren Towers, EDF Energy's head of sustainability, said: 'EDF Energy has been able to invest millions of pounds in small-scale renewable schemes like the project at Okehampton College. It's all part of our commitment to help build a low carbon future for Britain.'

The environmental projects are not only reducing the college's carbon footprint and energy bills, but being used to teach students about the importance of renewable energy.

Head boy Jed Chapman said: 'The college is setting a direct example, showing the benefits of green energy to both its students and people in the wider community.

'Environmental issues are becoming more important for the future, and the college is doing a great job of showing their importance.'

The college hopes the second wind turbine will soon be erected with the help of funding from Okehampton United Charity. A pledge from the college that the feed-in tariff income will be distributed among local projects and community causes supported by Okehampton United Charity has been welcomed.

Allenton Fisher, chairman of Okehampton United Charity, said: 'We are pleased to have been able to provide the site for this modestly sized wind project, and a second turbine could provide a steady income over the next 20 years for local causes in Okehampton needing our support.'

Former college student and chief executive of the National Grid Steven Holliday said: 'The work Okehampton College has carried out is a great example of what can be done to manage energy needs in a sustainable way.

'Cutting the amount of energy you use by half through simple energy efficiency measures and then developing local renewable energy solutions is a great template for other schools, businesses and homes to follow.

'I'm really pleased to see this great work and congratulate all involved on a job well done.'