The UK's biggest community windfarm operator is generating £800,000 a year for community projects in the Western Isles
Point and Sandwick Trust, the UK’s biggest community windfarm operator, has won the prestigious Celebrating Communities award at the Scottish Charity Awards.
The organisation supports development of community projects in villages on the Isle of Lewis and the wider Western Isles.
Its £14 million Beinn Ghrideag windarm is 100% owned by the trust and is currently producing £800,000 in net income for the local community every year.
The trust is therefore able to support a range of community services, including giving £55,000 a year to Bethesda Hospice, which looks after 34 people and employs 90 staff.
Point and Sandwick Trust general manager Donald John MacSween said: “We are delighted to be recognised by the Scottish Charity Awards for our work in the local and wider Western Isles community.
“As a 100% owned community organisation, we are very proud of what we have achieved to date and look forward to a bright future continuing our mission to promote and support local people, charities and projects.”
Organised annually by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), the Scottish Charity Awards celebrate the amazing work that people within charities and community groups do every day, all over the country, to help those in need and raise awareness of important causes.
Andrew Burns, convener of SCVO, said: “A huge congratulations to our winners and all of this year’s finalists. Each of the 40 individuals and organisations shortlisted make a huge difference to the communities they work with, and I’m delighted that we have been able to bring the third sector together to both recognise and celebrate their achievements. We received over 13,000 votes for the People’s Choice Award so I would also like to thank all those who contributed to the evening by voting for their favourite charity. A wonderful night had by all.”
This year 40 finalists were shortlisted, with one charity winning two awards, and an additional two finalists receiving special commendations for their work.
