A fresh set of proposals to transform Andreas Airfield into a rural employment and renewable energy hub go on public display today.
A public consultation will be held today at Andreas Parish Hall from 10am to 7pm, where residents can view updated plans to repurpose previously developed land into a farmer‑led energy and commercial zone.
The scheme centres on a renewable micro‑grid, combining an anaerobic digester, ground‑mounted solar PV and battery storage.
Local farmers would supply feedstock for the AD plant, which is designed to run on maize, whole‑crop cereals and grass silage, rather than household or garden waste.
At peak output, the system could generate up to 27MW of electricity, equivalent to around 90% of the island’s 2026 renewable energy deployment target, while offsetting 5,000 tonnes of CO₂ each year.
If approved, the project would create up to 10 operational jobs and provide a new income stream for Manx agriculture. Heat generated by the AD plant could also support on‑site businesses, with potential for a district heating network capable of serving up to 300 nearby homes.