The Bristol Cyclist - No. 42 - Winter 2001 | Previous | Contents | Next

Plug Corner

We all do a bit for the planet by riding our bikes, but when we turn on lights, kettles, fridges, etc., we are harming the environment. Most electricity comes from either coal or gas turbines - which contribute to global warming or nuclear power which also caused serious environmental problems.

But now there is an alternative - electricity supplier npower have teamed up with Greenpeace to launch Juice, which is electricity generated from entirely renewable sources.

They promise that your electricity will cost no more than you're paying now and, unlike previous "green" electric schemes, they promise to invest in renewable resources. Initially, the power will come from on-shore wind and hydro-electric sources. But after 50,000 people sign up they intend to build an offshore wind farm off the North Wales coast - they have about 27,000 customers at the moment.

Signing up is relatively pain free. Dial 0800 316 2610 and you get to a human fairly quickly. You'll need your old electric bill and your bank details. You have to agree to pay by direct debit to sign up, so have a rough idea of your monthly electricity spending. It takes 28 days to come on line.

For more information go to the Greenpeace website: www.greenpeace.org.uk.

The Bristol Cyclist - No. 42 - Winter 2001 | Previous | Contents | Next