Wind turbines installed

28 Jan 08

The installation of five 20-metre wind turbines has begun on the site of Liverpool's new Echo Arena and BT Convention Centre.

The low-noise turbines are being introduced as part of ACC Liverpool's mission to be the most environmentally-friendly facility of its kind in Europe.

The machines, which are designed to look like works of art rather than traditionally-shaped turbines, will provide the equivalent of around 10% of electricity in the Echo Arena and BT Convention Centre. The rest of the electricity will be supplied by E.ON, one of the UK's leading electricity and gas companies, and will be purchased from a renewable source.

ACC Liverpool has been designed to produce half the CO2 emissions of a traditional building and will use 20% less electricity. The design of the building, along with its insulation and air control system, is inherently efficient and requires significantly less energy than a traditional build would. As well as this, rainwater is collected on the roof of the building and then used to flush toilets in the Echo Arena. 

Bob Prattey, ACC Liverpool's Chief Executive, said: "Sustainability is a hugely important part of ACC Liverpool's strategy. As well as generating our own power we have a commitment that any other energy we take comes from renewable sources.

"The wind turbines have been chosen specifically because, as well as generating 10% of our electricity, they look fantastic and compliment the futuristic design of the  building. ."

ACC Liverpool officially opened on January 12th with Liverpool – The Musical, one of the first events celebrating the city's year as European Capital of Culture. The facility, on King’s Waterfront, is made up of the 10,600-seat Echo Arena and the state-of-the-art BT Convention Centre. 

North West caterer, Heathcotes, have been chosen to provide food at the Echo Arena and BT Convention Centre to keep 'food miles' at a minimum. Heathcotes have a dedication to using local, fresh produce to minimise the impact of transport and frozen holdings.

A comprehensive waste disposal policy is also in place. All food and green waste will be composted, paper and cardboard waste will be separated and  glass, metal and wood recycling will happen direct on site. ACC Liverpool also adheres to paperless office principles and has an extranet service where clients can download large documents, such as contracts, online rather than printing and posting them.  

For further information, contact Jane Wolstenholme on 07983 649 747