The Renewable Island of Eigg
Located in the Scottish Inner Hebrides, the renewable Isle of Eigg is a small island with less than 100 inhabitants. In 2008, the community on the island joined together with the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust and successfully built a major mains electricity grid, powered by renewable sources. Four 6KW wind turbines, solar panels and a network of hydroelectric systems have reduced the reliance on diesel generators. The island is now powered by between 75% and 98% renewable resources.
‘It’s a nightmare replacing these panels when the wind’s up, but I do love it here and I love Eigg. Since the island’s gone green and become less reliant on importing diesel, it’s so peaceful and much quieter on the island’. – Bob
‘It’s beautiful here but at the moment hill farming is in serious decline on the island. We need a local abattoir so we can become even more self-sufficient’ – Sarah Boden, the only hill farmer on Eigg.
‘Aye, she’s been picking it up pretty quickly’ – Emily teaching her niece Emmy how to use the clutch.
‘I’m a graphic designer, but I am also one of two plumbers on the island. At the moment I am installing Solar Panels on my friend Jenny’s house, you have to do what you can to make a living out here’. Ben Cormack
‘There are hundreds of bird species here including Golden Eagles and Peregrines. The removal of diesel generators has really helped hear, spot and enjoy the wildlife here’ John Chester aka ‘John the Bird’, Eigg’s Wildlife Warden.
‘Beans and tea at 07.00 hours then we head to the tea room for a bacon sarnie. It’s so peaceful here – we’ve never slept better’ Maggie and Tommy from Liverpool, the only people camping on the island. Egg Community Centre
‘Renewables power the island but it’s the community that makes it all work’ – Eddie, Eigg Electric Team Co-ordinator.