Opinion

Q&A – Paul McCullagh, UrbanWind

Paul McCullagh, chief executive of UrbanWind
Paul McCullagh, chief executive of UrbanWind

REI: What have you got planned for 2015?
PM: 2015 is set to be a watershed year for us, with an unprecedented level of development projects confirmed or in the pipeline. We have already this year commenced work on three fully funded turbines, and have a major series of funded projects planned for throughout the year. The first quarter of 2015 alone is already looking to be our busiest and most exciting quarter to date.

Q: What do you see as the growth area for renewables?
Interest in our fully-funded wind and commercial solar offering is going from strength to strength, and we firmly believe that this model will play a significant role in the continued growth of renewables and, in particular, medium wind in the UK.

This investor-backed model unlocks the opportunity for potential customers who possess the land assets and/or planning consents to benefit from a wind turbine, but are currently unable to purchase one outright or to secure the necessary funding, to fully capitalise on the financial benefits of this technology.

Q: How is your company cutting its carbon footprint?
Reducing our carbon footprint is undoubtedly an area where we strive to be proactive, not least so that we can advise customers on this issue from a position of strength.

We are investing heavily in solar panels and LED lighting, and have carried out an extensive review of our transport needs. This includes downsizing, and increasing use of video conferencing with clients and suppliers.

Paul McCullagh is CEO of UrbanWind