Baywind Energy Co-operative

Baywind Energy Co-operative was the first co-operative to own wind turbines in the United Kingdom. Modelled on renewable energy co-operatives common in Scandinavia, it was founded as an Industrial and Provident Society in 1996 and has 1,200 members each holding one vote. A share of its profits is invested in local community environmental initiatives through the Baywind Energy Community Trust, and the co-operative won the 2004 National Social Enterprise Award for its approach to community owned renewable energy.