Stand up for the Planet on Mam Tor is 4pm on Sunday 9 June and we need to help to advertise and raise awareness of “the Mother Hill of All Protests” See Facebook @peakdistrictagainstfracking for details
Showing posts with label Energy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Energy. Show all posts
Monday, 20 May 2019
Anti-Fracking Update -May 2019
Fracking, Fossil Fuels and Project " Molly" – June gave an update on the current situation. Project " Molly" was discussed.
Climate Change Campaign Update - May 2019
On 26 June there is the Climate Change “The Time is Now” lobby of Parliament. A chance to lobby your MP. Tell the group if you’re going and who your MP is. Groundswell events also coming up. Another schools strike for the climate is happening this Friday (11am Devonshire Green)
Climate groups have been invited to a meeting at the Town Hall to discuss the Climate Emergency by Lewis Dagnall SCC Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change. Richard will write on behalf of the group to say that FoE will contribute.
Climate groups have been invited to a meeting at the Town Hall to discuss the Climate Emergency by Lewis Dagnall SCC Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change. Richard will write on behalf of the group to say that FoE will contribute.
Monday, 15 April 2019
Fracking Campaign - April 2019
June provided an update on anti-fracking events. The appeal against INEOS injunction was partly successful; an international tribunal have recommended a global ban on fracking; fracking companies are trying to get rules on earthquakes associated with fracking relaxed.
Richard has some new anti-fracking publicity materials that focus on earthquakes associated with fracking activities. There may be protests about “Team INEOS” cycling sponsorship. There may be action planned associated with the Tour de Yorkshire. There is an event planned at Mam Tor on 9 June and we are providing funds for transport. There is a May Day event in Sheffield on 4th May and event in Chesterfield on 6th May.
Richard has some new anti-fracking publicity materials that focus on earthquakes associated with fracking activities. There may be protests about “Team INEOS” cycling sponsorship. There may be action planned associated with the Tour de Yorkshire. There is an event planned at Mam Tor on 9 June and we are providing funds for transport. There is a May Day event in Sheffield on 4th May and event in Chesterfield on 6th May.
Monday, 17 December 2018
Anti-Fracking Campaign Update - December 2018
Sheffield Against Fracking's AGM is coming up on Jan 8 at 7:30 United Reform Church and is an open meeting – all welcome. Drew has done some artwork for the AGM for them. Other meetings include 22 Jan 7:30 Theatre Deli, speaker meeting on Health Impacts (Eddie Thornton and others). A full update with details of future meetings from June below and further info on Sheffield Against Fracking website.
Details of Fracking events and news (update from June)
Winter Solstice at Tinker Lane
Tinker Lane Protectors Camp, DN22 8PA
Saturday 22nd December Starts at 4pm
Join the protectors for some solstice connection, reflection and earth healing vibes.
We'll meet and spend some time by the gates, then head to camp and eat some warming food. Everyone welcome!
FRACK OFF - festive fundraiser
Saturday 22nd December Starts at 7pm
The Queen Crafthouse & Kitchen, 1 Sunny Bar, Doncaster DN1 1LY
An evening of live music to raise awareness of fracking and support those who are protesting daily at anti-fracking camps in the Doncaster area. RAFFLE £1 ENTRY. Plus a talk by Dave Shaw, co-founder of Frack Free South Yorkshire. Free entry but donations welcome to support the anti-fracking movement.
Sheffield Against Fracking AGM & monthly meeting
Tuesday 8th January 2019 7.30pm-9.30pm
Central URC Church, 60 Norfolk Street, Sheffield S1 2JB
With the growing threat of fracking and toxic waste in our area, we'd love new people to get involved with ideas, skills or a desire to learn.
There are various roles available, from event and action coordinators to internal and external communication roles. For more information, please email us.
Regional Strategy Meeting for South Yorks/ East Midlands
Saturday 12th January 2019 10am - 1pm
The Wesley Centre, Blyth Road, Maltby, Rotherham S66 8JD
Meeting of anti-fracking groups from across the region. Meet like-minded people, share knowledge, skills and experiences, and learn about the situation locally & nationally
Fracking: Health impacts & the KM8 victory
Tuesday 22nd January 2019 7.30-9.30pm at Theatre Delicatessen
How the community of Kirby Misperton united to protect their landscape from fracking; with views from Eddie & Tim Thornton - 2 different approaches to activism.
Eddie Thornton an activist determined to protect his local area from fracking - why and how.
Tim Thornton - retired family doctor and a concerned health professional, who has set up Concerned Health Professionals of the United Kingdom (alongside Carol Hutchinson from Eckington)
Deborah Gibson - local activist & campaigner from Harthill Against Fracking & Frack Free South Yorkshire - an update on fracking in the area how you can get involved.
Free entry, donations to Sheffield Against Fracking
Apple crumble, tea & coffee included
Fracking halted AGAIN in Lancashire
A minor earthquake of 1.5 magnitude struck late on Tuesday morning following a series of far smaller tremors, and after fossil fuel exploration had stopped for the day. Activity has again been suspended. Locals said they felt the tremor.
Details of Fracking events and news (update from June)
Winter Solstice at Tinker Lane
Tinker Lane Protectors Camp, DN22 8PA
Saturday 22nd December Starts at 4pm
Join the protectors for some solstice connection, reflection and earth healing vibes.
We'll meet and spend some time by the gates, then head to camp and eat some warming food. Everyone welcome!
FRACK OFF - festive fundraiser
Saturday 22nd December Starts at 7pm
The Queen Crafthouse & Kitchen, 1 Sunny Bar, Doncaster DN1 1LY
An evening of live music to raise awareness of fracking and support those who are protesting daily at anti-fracking camps in the Doncaster area. RAFFLE £1 ENTRY. Plus a talk by Dave Shaw, co-founder of Frack Free South Yorkshire. Free entry but donations welcome to support the anti-fracking movement.
Sheffield Against Fracking AGM & monthly meeting
Tuesday 8th January 2019 7.30pm-9.30pm
Central URC Church, 60 Norfolk Street, Sheffield S1 2JB
With the growing threat of fracking and toxic waste in our area, we'd love new people to get involved with ideas, skills or a desire to learn.
There are various roles available, from event and action coordinators to internal and external communication roles. For more information, please email us.
Regional Strategy Meeting for South Yorks/ East Midlands
Saturday 12th January 2019 10am - 1pm
The Wesley Centre, Blyth Road, Maltby, Rotherham S66 8JD
Meeting of anti-fracking groups from across the region. Meet like-minded people, share knowledge, skills and experiences, and learn about the situation locally & nationally
Fracking: Health impacts & the KM8 victory
Tuesday 22nd January 2019 7.30-9.30pm at Theatre Delicatessen
How the community of Kirby Misperton united to protect their landscape from fracking; with views from Eddie & Tim Thornton - 2 different approaches to activism.
Eddie Thornton an activist determined to protect his local area from fracking - why and how.
Tim Thornton - retired family doctor and a concerned health professional, who has set up Concerned Health Professionals of the United Kingdom (alongside Carol Hutchinson from Eckington)
Deborah Gibson - local activist & campaigner from Harthill Against Fracking & Frack Free South Yorkshire - an update on fracking in the area how you can get involved.
Free entry, donations to Sheffield Against Fracking
Apple crumble, tea & coffee included
Fracking halted AGAIN in Lancashire
A minor earthquake of 1.5 magnitude struck late on Tuesday morning following a series of far smaller tremors, and after fossil fuel exploration had stopped for the day. Activity has again been suspended. Locals said they felt the tremor.
Monday, 19 November 2018
Anti-Fracking Campaign Update - November 2018
June gave an update on current activity, including a number of events coming up:
- Ian Fairley is giving a talk at California Lane, Ballborough on 21/11/18. If you can't get there a video from the Sheffield meeting is available on YouTube.
- An event at Tinker Lane on 22/11/18 to “dress in pink”.
- Saturday 23/11/18 “funeral for the future” meeting at Town Hall (dress in black).
Alan gave update on the London and Sheffield Extinction Rebellion meetings. Rachel gave update on an open letter that will be available for more signatories in due course (Lauren will forward on).
Monday, 15 October 2018
Anti Fracking Campaign Update - October 2018
Richard praised Dr Ian Fairlie's insightful presentation on radioactivity and fracking at the meeting on the 27th September.
The successful Global Frackdown Carnival in Sheffield was featured on both Look North and Radio Sheffield
Friends of the Earth Sheffield are proud to have donated money to Harthill Against Fracking and wish them the best of luck in their fight against fracking in Lancashire. Friends of the Earth Sheffield will also be contributing to transport costs involved with a national call for support at the Preston New Road fracking site near Blackpool. If you would like to go to the national rally please see the poster below:
Sheffield Friend of the Earth created a short video in support of the people in Blackpool trying to stop fracking.
The successful Global Frackdown Carnival in Sheffield was featured on both Look North and Radio Sheffield
Friends of the Earth Sheffield are proud to have donated money to Harthill Against Fracking and wish them the best of luck in their fight against fracking in Lancashire. Friends of the Earth Sheffield will also be contributing to transport costs involved with a national call for support at the Preston New Road fracking site near Blackpool. If you would like to go to the national rally please see the poster below:
Monday, 17 September 2018
Fracking Campaign - September 2018 Update
We helped out with a Sheffield Against Fracking stall at Sheffield Fayre in Norfolk Park on 27th August and again at Ecclesfield Gala with newly formed Frack Free Ecclesfield and Chapeltown the following weekend.
There was a debate on Fracking in Parliament where local MPs contributed supporting FoE's call for the erosion of local decision making in this matter to be stopped "Let Communities Decide".
Two very significant meetings were held on 27th September. Thanks go to Jack Scott , cabinet member on Sheffield City Council, for bringing activists and councillors together at lunchtime at the Crucible Theatre's Adelphi Suite to discuss presentations from Rob Murfin, SCC's Chief Planning Officer, Dr Ian Fairlie and John Busby on aspects of fracking that could directly impact on Sheffield should this hideous industry scale up. In particular, the problems of effectively regulating potential contaminants, including radiation and the associated health risks. Dr Ian Fairlie addressed a meeting in High Green in the evening answering questions from local residents and anti-fracking campaigners from many groups. It is hoped that Dr Ian Fairlie will give further talks on this matter to local groups in the near future.
Global Crackdown Carnival: look out for this and associated events on 13 th October. The organisers have built on the experience of the Sheffield FoE Rally last year. Let's hope it's bigger and better. Get along if you can. Check out our Facebook page for more details or https://www.facebook.com/events/332917514116942/
There was a debate on Fracking in Parliament where local MPs contributed supporting FoE's call for the erosion of local decision making in this matter to be stopped "Let Communities Decide".
Two very significant meetings were held on 27th September. Thanks go to Jack Scott , cabinet member on Sheffield City Council, for bringing activists and councillors together at lunchtime at the Crucible Theatre's Adelphi Suite to discuss presentations from Rob Murfin, SCC's Chief Planning Officer, Dr Ian Fairlie and John Busby on aspects of fracking that could directly impact on Sheffield should this hideous industry scale up. In particular, the problems of effectively regulating potential contaminants, including radiation and the associated health risks. Dr Ian Fairlie addressed a meeting in High Green in the evening answering questions from local residents and anti-fracking campaigners from many groups. It is hoped that Dr Ian Fairlie will give further talks on this matter to local groups in the near future.
Global Crackdown Carnival: look out for this and associated events on 13 th October. The organisers have built on the experience of the Sheffield FoE Rally last year. Let's hope it's bigger and better. Get along if you can. Check out our Facebook page for more details or https://www.facebook.com/events/332917514116942/
Monday, 20 August 2018
Campaign Update - August 2018
Fracking
Air Pollution
- Richard provided an update. The Marsh Lane application was approved largely on grounds of putative energy needs.
- Sheffield Climate Alliance are continuing to meet regularly with councillor Jack Scott.
- A training workshop for councillors, with the Council’s Chief Planning Officer and two independent experts, is likely to be 26 or 27 September. It will look at the issues of waste fracking water at Ecclesfield.
- Alan and Richard visited the Mission Springs and Tinker Lane protection camps.
- Detailed information on recent anti-fracking news and plans available from Sheffield Against Fracking website and newsletter.
- The Deep in Hull apparently don’t want groups for their beach clean activity so we have dropped this as a social event.
- We were contacted by the Brownies to see if we could do a talk about plastics. Richard will follow this up and offer to do a talk.
- Our main campaign focus at the minute is the opportunity for organising a local film screening of “A Plastic Ocean” with a panel discussion afterwards. Shaun has identified a number of options that he and Bert will follow up in terms of collaborative showings: We have the opportunity to screen “Blue Heart” about damming rivers but we feel it will be difficult to build up an audience.
- We are aware of national Friends of the Earth's Freedom of Information request to the council to obtain a copy of the feasibility study for Nitrogen Dioxide Compliance (required by DEFRA by 31 March 2018, under the Environment Act 1995, Air Quality Direction 2017) which identifies options for compliance with legal limits for Nitrogen Dioxide. The council haven't provided this as the document is still in draft. Friends of the Earth are working on this and we will help if we can.
Other News - August 2018
Group Development Work
Shaun has discussed with Simon Bowens at Friends of the Earth's regional office and established that regionally and nationally FoE want to help local groups much more than in past. Simon is our primary contact and Carla is leading on provision of training and group activities likely to mainly be in 2019. They discussed the need for small campaigns that don’t require major resources and FoE is developing “campaign in a box” materials that might help. Shaun will invite Simon to our next meeting (September –or October if September not feasible) to discuss further ways they can help. Shuan is also exploring the Action Network site to see how we might use it for petitions and campaigning.
Art Project in Paradise Square
We have shared information about an Art Project in Paradise Square and the recruitment of 500 women is apparently going well. The project is about women and political campaigning.
Low-Carbon Economy
Richard has been interviewed by Ana Laranjeira from Imperial College London for Just Transition to a low-carbon economy project.
Shaun has discussed with Simon Bowens at Friends of the Earth's regional office and established that regionally and nationally FoE want to help local groups much more than in past. Simon is our primary contact and Carla is leading on provision of training and group activities likely to mainly be in 2019. They discussed the need for small campaigns that don’t require major resources and FoE is developing “campaign in a box” materials that might help. Shaun will invite Simon to our next meeting (September –or October if September not feasible) to discuss further ways they can help. Shuan is also exploring the Action Network site to see how we might use it for petitions and campaigning.
Art Project in Paradise Square
We have shared information about an Art Project in Paradise Square and the recruitment of 500 women is apparently going well. The project is about women and political campaigning.
Low-Carbon Economy
Richard has been interviewed by Ana Laranjeira from Imperial College London for Just Transition to a low-carbon economy project.
Monday, 16 July 2018
Fracking Campaign - July 2018
June updated the group on the latest developments with the anti-fracking campaign.
Woodsetts
INEOs have submitted a new application, almost identical to the one which was unanimously rejected by RMBC. They have sent letters to the councillors and residents of Woodsetts saying they won at Harthill, they are going to win at Woodsetts and they will ask for RMBC to pay their full costs.
Marsh Lane
Public Enquiry finished on 29th June. Congratulations and hearty thanks for a sterling effort from the Eckington Against Fracking Team, Derbyshire CC and others who supported them. A decision is expected in mid-August.
Harthill
The government has overruled Rotherham council’s decision and granted INEOS permission to build a test well. Harthill Against Fracking will request a judicial review.
Misson Springs
Work has been suspended at Misson due to the owl breeding season.
Tinker Lane
Work has been temporarily halted while a study is conducted after a hobby bird was sighted.
All 5 sites above desperately need funds.
Preston New Road (Lancs)
Residents are demanding that fracking should not be allowed until Cuadrilla have issued an Emergency Evacuation Plan in the event of an emergency.
7th earthquake in Surrey
Residents are demanding an investigation after the 7th earthquake this year. Previously there has been no seismic activity for 50 years. “We think that serious questions should be asked, especially in connection with the two [oil and gas] sites nearest to the epicentres: Brockham and Horse Hill.”
The British Geological Survey have said “We are unable to say categorically if these earthquakes are related to hydrocarbon exploration or production in the Weald, mainly because of the uncertainties in our estimates of the earthquake epicentres and depths.”
Recent events
Future events
Government
The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, which was chaired by Clive Betts has published its report
INEOS have asked the government for financial help to build a new chemical plant at Hull. They said they may take the project to Belgium if the government refuses.
Update from Richard
Richard attended a meeting about Regional Strategy and there are four groups looking at different aspects including Water (Richard contributing) and a further Regional Strategy Meeting on 18 Aug (organised by David Burley).
Woodsetts
INEOs have submitted a new application, almost identical to the one which was unanimously rejected by RMBC. They have sent letters to the councillors and residents of Woodsetts saying they won at Harthill, they are going to win at Woodsetts and they will ask for RMBC to pay their full costs.
Marsh Lane
Public Enquiry finished on 29th June. Congratulations and hearty thanks for a sterling effort from the Eckington Against Fracking Team, Derbyshire CC and others who supported them. A decision is expected in mid-August.
Harthill
The government has overruled Rotherham council’s decision and granted INEOS permission to build a test well. Harthill Against Fracking will request a judicial review.
Misson Springs
Work has been suspended at Misson due to the owl breeding season.
Tinker Lane
Work has been temporarily halted while a study is conducted after a hobby bird was sighted.
All 5 sites above desperately need funds.
Preston New Road (Lancs)
Residents are demanding that fracking should not be allowed until Cuadrilla have issued an Emergency Evacuation Plan in the event of an emergency.
7th earthquake in Surrey
Residents are demanding an investigation after the 7th earthquake this year. Previously there has been no seismic activity for 50 years. “We think that serious questions should be asked, especially in connection with the two [oil and gas] sites nearest to the epicentres: Brockham and Horse Hill.”
The British Geological Survey have said “We are unable to say categorically if these earthquakes are related to hydrocarbon exploration or production in the Weald, mainly because of the uncertainties in our estimates of the earthquake epicentres and depths.”
Recent events
- 8th July. SAF had a stall at Ridgeway. Good response from the public as it is very close to Marsh Lane.
- Friday 22nd June, Wheelies for Water: People cycled round Sheffield city Centre and then on to Blackburn Meadows where there were speeches. There was a good turnout.
- Saturday 14 July: Mosborough Against Fracking hosted a stall at Beighton Gala; Frack-free South Yorkshire hosted a stall at Harthill Carnival.
Future events
- Wednesday 18 July, 7.30pm, We Are Going to be Fracked. Barlborough Welfare Club. Guest Speaker is Ian Crane
- 12th August, South Yorkshire Show, Frack-free Penistone and Stocksbridge will have a stall
- 27th August, Sheffield Show in Norfolk Park. SAF will have a stall
- 2nd September, Ecclesfield Gala. Frack free Eccclesfield and Chapeltown will have a stall
- 23rd July, meeting in the school rooms at Woodsetts.
- Woodsetts Against Fracking want to host a huge event to include all anti-fracking groups in the area. 13th October was suggested as this is “Global Frackdown Day”. It hasn’t been decided yet whether it will be in Sheffield or Rotherham.
Government
The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, which was chaired by Clive Betts has published its report
- It warned against treating the applications for test drilling as permitted development
- It opposed bringing fracking into the National Infrastructure Plan, saying it should not be treated any differently from other forms of energy.
- It said the definition of fracking should be made clear, to ensure that anything involving artificial fracturing should be subjected to the appropriate regulations.
INEOS have asked the government for financial help to build a new chemical plant at Hull. They said they may take the project to Belgium if the government refuses.
Update from Richard
Richard attended a meeting about Regional Strategy and there are four groups looking at different aspects including Water (Richard contributing) and a further Regional Strategy Meeting on 18 Aug (organised by David Burley).
Monday, 18 June 2018
Anti-Fracking Campaign Update - June 2018
Some of the main fracking issues discussed at the meeting were:
- Since the decision to allow exploration at Harthill, there has been a new application at Woodsetts.
- There is an event for Marsh Lane planned which includes activities for children and campaign awareness raising rather than a demonstration. Meeting at Fox & Hounds pub from 2-5 on Saturday 23 June.
- We discussed strategy and the waste water contamination issue.
- FoE is joining up with 360 Degrees for potential joint action (potential week of action to target MPs in late July)
- Richard has done a Radio Sheffield interview on fracking and activism.
- FFSY are holing a Regional Strategy meeting on 30 June. See Frack Free South Yorkshire website.
Monday, 21 May 2018
Fracking Update - May 2018
June provided an update on the local council response to the proposed changes in planning regulations to make it much easier to get planning permission for fracking – locally there is significant disquiet. The new Lord Mayor is also a Green councillor and has taken an active interest in local campaigns and has visited Tinker Lane. The newly elected Mayor for the Sheffield City Region, Dan Jarvis also needs to be lobbied to ensure he is aware it is a local priority although there is still uncertainty about his tenure at the moment. Yorkshire Post has published an article on the expert opinion on the need for buffer zones whilst the national government has not made any decisions about buffer zones.
Several events in May including one at Misson Springs (highlighting threat to owls) and event at Clumber Park this weekend. Harthill is still awaiting a decision post-enquiry.
Museums Sheffield – Richard reported on a radio interview he has been invited to give on his contribution to the exhibition so there will be an opportunity to raise anti-fracking
June is planning to start a newsletter to share information about all the anti-fracking events which we can share via FoE email list and our Facebook page.
Richard has met with the local Labour Party chair and identified some appropriate GMB contacts to try and mobilise Labour activism against fracking
Events coming up in June include
Several events in May including one at Misson Springs (highlighting threat to owls) and event at Clumber Park this weekend. Harthill is still awaiting a decision post-enquiry.
Museums Sheffield – Richard reported on a radio interview he has been invited to give on his contribution to the exhibition so there will be an opportunity to raise anti-fracking
June is planning to start a newsletter to share information about all the anti-fracking events which we can share via FoE email list and our Facebook page.
Richard has met with the local Labour Party chair and identified some appropriate GMB contacts to try and mobilise Labour activism against fracking
Events coming up in June include
- 9 June - Anti-Fracking stall at Peace in the Park
- 19 June - Marsh Lane enquiry starts and the Eckington group is organising a peaceful protest at 9am (Chesterfield Town Hall)
- 23 June – Day of action at the Fox & Hounds – more details to follow.
- Share June’s newsletter when available
- Check the FoE petition can be accessed from the local group website.
- As previous agreed Sheffield FoE will support the Misson Springs Protection Camp campaign where we can.
Monday, 19 February 2018
Anti-Fracking Training
Anti-Fracking training - "Know your Rights" on Saturday 3rd March from 10.00 am to 2.00pm at The Wesley Centre, Blyth Road, Maltby, Rotherham S66 8JD
Green and Black Cross will be running a ‘Know Your Rights’ workshop which aims to give anti-fracking campaigners the knowledge to combat repressive police tactics commonly used against protesters.
Topics covered:
- Our Key Messages: The most important thing you can take with you on a protest.
- Police Tactics and Private Security: Who are these police liaison teams and what is their role
- Stop and Search: Understand the limits of what the police can search for and learn how to resist information gathering techniques used by officers.
- What happens when I’m arrested?: Your first arrest is always going to be difficult experience. We take you through the process and your rights in custody, to prepare you for the experience should it arise.
- Laws commonly used against protesters: We’ll put you in the shoes of a police officer on the hunt to make some arrests.
- Your name.
- Contact phone number for last minute updates/changes.
- The anti-fracking group you belong to.
- The name of the course: "Know your Rights".
https://www.facebook.com/events/203992193672044/
https://www.wesleycentremaltby.co.uk/
https://www.sheffieldfoe.co.uk
https://greenandblackcross.org
Anti-Fracking training “Legal Observer” on Saturday 10th March training from 10.00 am to 5.00pm at St Andrew's United Reformed Church, Upper Hanover Street, Sheffield S3 7RQ
Green and Black Cross will be running a “Legal Observers” workshop which is an essential part of the support provided at protests. Whether handing out key advice on bust cards, or finding witnesses for arrests, legal observers help to ensure that people protesting against fracking don’t face the legal system alone.
Topics covered:
- Police tactics
- Stop & Search law & procedure
- Arrestee support
- Police ranks & command structure
- How to provide good witnesses and nail inappropriate policing
- How to get more involved with GBC
There are 30 free places which are open to anti-fracking campaigners. Please contact Richard Souter by email souter_r@hotmail.com with the 4 key pieces of information specified below:
https://www.facebook.com/events/150470025650546/
http://standrewsurcsheffield.org.uk/
https://www.sheffieldfoe.co.uk
https://greenandblackcross.org
- Your name.
- Contact phone number for last minute updates/changes.
- The anti-fracking group you belong to.
- The name of the course: "Legal Observers".
https://www.facebook.com/events/150470025650546/
http://standrewsurcsheffield.org.uk/
https://www.sheffieldfoe.co.uk
https://greenandblackcross.org
Anti-Fracking Update - February 2018
Burns Night
Our Burns night anti-fracking fund raising event was very successful with approx. £1000 raised from sales and donations.
Anti-Fracking Legal Training
Green and Black Cross training – training for fracking activists is being hosted in two different venues on different dates, “Know Your Rights” on 3 March in Maltby and “Legal Observer” training on 10 March in Sheffield. Training is provided free so Sheffield Friends of the Earth only need to pay for venues. If training well attended or oversubscribed it may be possible to organise further sessions.
For more details see
https://www.facebook.com/events/203992193672044/
https://www.facebook.com/events/150470025650546/
https://www.sheffieldfoe.co.uk/2018/02/anti-fracking-training.html
Ecclesfield
We had an update from Richard on the planned meeting with council and local environmental groups and two independent experts who can explain the evidence on the issue of water contamination from the fracking process and associated hazards.
Labour Party
Richard is giving a presentation on fracking campaigning to Fulwood Labour Party on 20 March.
Fracking Update from Frack Free South Yorkshire
Our Burns night anti-fracking fund raising event was very successful with approx. £1000 raised from sales and donations.
Anti-Fracking Legal Training
Green and Black Cross training – training for fracking activists is being hosted in two different venues on different dates, “Know Your Rights” on 3 March in Maltby and “Legal Observer” training on 10 March in Sheffield. Training is provided free so Sheffield Friends of the Earth only need to pay for venues. If training well attended or oversubscribed it may be possible to organise further sessions.
For more details see
https://www.facebook.com/events/203992193672044/
https://www.facebook.com/events/150470025650546/
https://www.sheffieldfoe.co.uk/2018/02/anti-fracking-training.html
Ecclesfield
We had an update from Richard on the planned meeting with council and local environmental groups and two independent experts who can explain the evidence on the issue of water contamination from the fracking process and associated hazards.
Labour Party
Richard is giving a presentation on fracking campaigning to Fulwood Labour Party on 20 March.
Fracking Update from Frack Free South Yorkshire
Misson Springs and Tinker Lane well sites
IGas has begun work on well pad constructions. IGas says Misson Springs will be their first well. A protection camp has been set up. Postcode DN10 6ES.
Marsh Lane
Derbyshire County Council planning committee voted 9 to 1 to oppose the planning application. Ineos’ appeal will be heard from Tuesday 19th to Friday 22nd June, and from Tuesday 26th to 29th June 2018.
Harthill
On 25th January the Rotherham Council Planning Board councillors unanimously backed their planning officers recommendation to oppose the application on traffic and ecology grounds.
Ineos’ appeal will be heard from 24th to 27th April, and from 1st to 4th May at Rotherham Town Hall, The Crofts, Moorgate Street, Rotherham S60 2TH
Woodsetts
The Planning Board meeting is expected to be held on 8th March. There is still time to get objection letters in. A pro-forma is attached.
Kirby Misperton, North Yorkshire
Third Energy’s contractors have pulled out most of the equipment from the well site. There are restrictions on the work Third Energy can do during nearby Flamingoland’s season from Easter to September so it unlikely they will return until September at the earliest.
Mineral Strategies
The Communities and Local Government Committee has opened an inquiry to examine (1) whether guidance for local authorities taking planning decisions on fracking applications needs to be updated or improved, (2) whether there needs to be a comprehensive document bringing all existing guidance together, for all those involved in the planning process, and (3) whether applications for fracking should be determined by the national planning regime rather than at a local level.
The third part gives us the most concern. In its 2017 General Election manifesto, the Conservative Party said, “where necessary, major shale planning decisions will be made the responsibility of the National Planning Regime.” This is an attack on localism. The deadline for submissions is 14 March.
Events
- Saturday 24 February, 11.00am: NOT FOR SHALE AWARENESS MARCH.
- Saturday 24 February, 5.30pm to 2am: FRACKING SHAMBLES AT HAGGLERS. Hagglers Corner, 586 Queens Road, Sheffield S2 4DU. Anti-fracking fundraiser. Food, live music, DJs and speakers including Eddie Thornton, Helen Chuntso, David Kestevens and Frack Free South Yorkshire.
- Tuesday 27 February, 7pm: MEETING RE HARTHILL PUBLIC ENQUIRY. Harthill Village Hall, Winney Hill, Harthill S26 7YL
- Tuesday 27 February, 7.30pm: FRACK FREE PENISTONE & STOCKSBRIDGE meeting. Travellers Inn, 286 The Common, Stocksbridge S35 9WP
- Wednesday 28 February, 7pm: WOODSETTS AGAINST FRACKING public meeting. Village Hall, Gildingwells Road, Woodsetts S81 8QB
- Saturday 3 March, 10am-2pm: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS TRAINING. The Wesley Centre, 14 Blyth Road, Maltby, Rotherham S66 8JD. Two miles East from Junction 1 of the M18 motorway.
- Saturday 10 March, 10am-5pm: LEGAL OBSERVER TRAINING. Saint Andrew's URC Church, Upper Hanover Street, Sheffield S3 7RQ
- Wednesday 14 March, 7.30-10.00pm: PROTEST LAW - Helen White of Howells LLP. The Queen, 135 High Street, Mosborough S20 5AF.
- Thursday 19 April, 7pm: THE BENTLEY EFFECT FILM SCREENING. The Venue, 650 Manchester Road, Stocksbridge S36 1DY
- And, of course, the ROBIN HOOD vs. FRACKING lantern-making workshops, street theatre and lantern parade.
Monday, 15 January 2018
Anti-Fracking Campaign Update - January 2018
Burns Night Anti Fracking Fundraising Event – 72 have booked with 8 places left and Eventbrite booking will close on 16 Jan 2018. There will be an opportunity to get people to sign objection forms for Marsh Lane on the night.
Know your Rights Training – Green & Black Cross are an anti-fracking organisation who provide training for legal observers for protest events and general advice about legal rights of protesters. They will provide training if we can find a venue.
ACTION: Shaun will be in touch to let them know we are interested and that Richard will liaise over finding a venue for up to two events for local anti-fracking groups.
Ecclesfield Water Treatment Plant – The injunction to suppress any potential protest in the area has been extended despite challenges from local campaigners. The plan is to try and organise a meeting to bring in experts to highlight the environmental problems that will arise from the waste water that is contaminated with radiation which is likely to end up in the River Don.
“Robin Hood v. the Frackers” will take place on Saturday 24 March. We will need stewards for street theatre and lantern procession.
ACTION: Dates for diaries – will need volunteers nearer the time for stewarding and for lantern-making during the week
ACTION: Shaun will be in touch to let them know we are interested and that Richard will liaise over finding a venue for up to two events for local anti-fracking groups.
Ecclesfield Water Treatment Plant – The injunction to suppress any potential protest in the area has been extended despite challenges from local campaigners. The plan is to try and organise a meeting to bring in experts to highlight the environmental problems that will arise from the waste water that is contaminated with radiation which is likely to end up in the River Don.
“Robin Hood v. the Frackers” will take place on Saturday 24 March. We will need stewards for street theatre and lantern procession.
ACTION: Dates for diaries – will need volunteers nearer the time for stewarding and for lantern-making during the week
Monday, 20 November 2017
Fracking Update - November 2017
Woodsetts and Harthill
Richard has been busy working with residents on fracking issues relating to Woodsetts and Harthill.
Ecclesfield
There is a plan for a waste water treatment plant in Ecclesfield, near to Morrisons, to process water from fracking operations and release it into the river Don. There has been local leafleting to raise awareness and two experts have identified issues of waste water and radiation. There are obvious threats to health or both residents/workers and local wildlife.
IGAS
Work has started at the Tinker Lane site south of Blyth.
INEOS
Ineos' interim injunction remains in place, but 'harassment' has been removed.
Channel 4 coverage: https://www.channel4.com/news/fracking-firm-wins-injunction-preventing-unlawful-protests
Ineos has applied to have the Marsh Lane and Harthill applications removed from the local planning authorities and sent straight to the Planning Inspectorate for a decision.
Email from Ineos to an Eckington Parish Councillor:
Dear Cllr. Gare,
I wanted to write to you today to tell you personally that after much consideration, INEOS Shale has taken the decision to ask the Planning Inspectorate to intervene in two applications for test drilling. The work we want to carry out at Marsh Lane in Derbyshire and Harthill near Rotherham would involve straightforward coring wells. These would provide geological samples which would also then be available for the nation to use as part of a wider evidence base for any other future projects.
With the statutory period for determining the applications long finished, we will be asking for the decisions to be made by the national planning body rather than the local council. We came to the conclusion that we needed to appeal directly to the Planning Inspectorate after we granted numerous extensions and established that, not only were decisions overdue, but also that they would still not be forthcoming in the short term.
It is important to remember that this work would bring inward investment into the local area with the possibility that the sites could also be used for shale gas development if the surveys are successful. Given the recent manufacturing decline across the region as a result of, among other things high energy costs, securing a local supply of energy could be transformational for the local economy providing both jobs and investment.
I want to reassure you that this decision has not been taken lightly, and that we understand the pressures on Councils to make decisions of national importance at a local level. Nevertheless, because of unreasonable delays we have been left without an option if there is to be progress on these important projects. Particularly in the context of the commitments we have made to Government via our licence obligations. Whilst our consultation process has always prioritised local people, and we will continue the dialogue about our plans at a local level, we cannot wait indefinitely for these decisions. Everyone will benefit from the provision of scientific data.
We will continue to work closely with you and local communities to explain the benefits of shale gas, as well as reassure you that this industry can be developed safely and can be of benefit to all.
Yours sincerely,
Lynn.
Lynn Calder
INEOS Shale – Commercial Director
INEOS | 38 Hans Crescent | London | SW1X 0LZ | E: lynn.calder@ineos.com |
Richard has been busy working with residents on fracking issues relating to Woodsetts and Harthill.
Ecclesfield
There is a plan for a waste water treatment plant in Ecclesfield, near to Morrisons, to process water from fracking operations and release it into the river Don. There has been local leafleting to raise awareness and two experts have identified issues of waste water and radiation. There are obvious threats to health or both residents/workers and local wildlife.
IGAS
Work has started at the Tinker Lane site south of Blyth.
INEOS
Ineos' interim injunction remains in place, but 'harassment' has been removed.
Channel 4 coverage: https://www.channel4.com/news/fracking-firm-wins-injunction-preventing-unlawful-protests
Ineos has applied to have the Marsh Lane and Harthill applications removed from the local planning authorities and sent straight to the Planning Inspectorate for a decision.
Email from Ineos to an Eckington Parish Councillor:
Dear Cllr. Gare,
I wanted to write to you today to tell you personally that after much consideration, INEOS Shale has taken the decision to ask the Planning Inspectorate to intervene in two applications for test drilling. The work we want to carry out at Marsh Lane in Derbyshire and Harthill near Rotherham would involve straightforward coring wells. These would provide geological samples which would also then be available for the nation to use as part of a wider evidence base for any other future projects.
With the statutory period for determining the applications long finished, we will be asking for the decisions to be made by the national planning body rather than the local council. We came to the conclusion that we needed to appeal directly to the Planning Inspectorate after we granted numerous extensions and established that, not only were decisions overdue, but also that they would still not be forthcoming in the short term.
It is important to remember that this work would bring inward investment into the local area with the possibility that the sites could also be used for shale gas development if the surveys are successful. Given the recent manufacturing decline across the region as a result of, among other things high energy costs, securing a local supply of energy could be transformational for the local economy providing both jobs and investment.
I want to reassure you that this decision has not been taken lightly, and that we understand the pressures on Councils to make decisions of national importance at a local level. Nevertheless, because of unreasonable delays we have been left without an option if there is to be progress on these important projects. Particularly in the context of the commitments we have made to Government via our licence obligations. Whilst our consultation process has always prioritised local people, and we will continue the dialogue about our plans at a local level, we cannot wait indefinitely for these decisions. Everyone will benefit from the provision of scientific data.
We will continue to work closely with you and local communities to explain the benefits of shale gas, as well as reassure you that this industry can be developed safely and can be of benefit to all.
Yours sincerely,
Lynn.
Lynn Calder
INEOS Shale – Commercial Director
INEOS | 38 Hans Crescent | London | SW1X 0LZ | E: lynn.calder@ineos.com |
Events Update - November 2017
Zero Carbon Yorkshire
Richard reported on an event with a presentation from Centre for Alternative Technologies (CAT) on “Zero Carbon Britain” where we can power the country using existing technology. See http://zerocarbonbritain.com/en/ for more details.
Peace and Craft Fair
Several people from the group ran a stall at the Peace and Craft Fair with information leaflets about fracking and air pollution.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be on Monday 18 December 2017 at 7.30 pm and Christmas meal at 8pm. If you would like to join us then please contact Liddy on e.goyder@sheffield.ac.uk
Richard reported on an event with a presentation from Centre for Alternative Technologies (CAT) on “Zero Carbon Britain” where we can power the country using existing technology. See http://zerocarbonbritain.com/en/ for more details.
Peace and Craft Fair
Several people from the group ran a stall at the Peace and Craft Fair with information leaflets about fracking and air pollution.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be on Monday 18 December 2017 at 7.30 pm and Christmas meal at 8pm. If you would like to join us then please contact Liddy on e.goyder@sheffield.ac.uk
Monday, 16 October 2017
Fracking & Fossil Fuels Update - October 2017
Fossil Fuel Day of Action
On 14 October 2017 people from all over the world took action to protect our climate from fossil fuels. From groups fighting giant oil companies in Africa, to communities already feeling the impact of rising sea levels, the whole of Friends of the Earth’s global community united for a day of action. Our message to the world: keep fossil fuels in the ground. It’s our best hope of stopping the most devastating consequences of climate change. You can see what happened around the world here.
In Sheffield, the day of action began at Weston Park Museum when Steve Goodacre and Liddy Goyder from Sheffield Friends of the Earth and June Bhooshi from Sheffield Against Fracking handed over three fossil fuel dinosaurs for safe keeping to Louisa Briggs of Sheffield Museums. The dinosaurs represented the 3 types of fossil fuels (oil, coal and gas) which must remain unused if we are to avoid dangerous climate change. Research shows that more than 80 per cent of the world’s known coal reserves, 30 per cent of known oil and 50 per cent of gas reserves are unburnable if we are to have a safe climate.
After the handover of the dinosaurs, the group marched to Barker’s Pool to join other concerned residents for a mass rally with the theme of keeping fossil fuels in the ground, skipping fracking and moving to clean renewables.
David Burley of Frack Free South Yorkshire introduced a number of speakers including Paul Blomfield MP for Sheffield Central and Shadow Brexit minister and Tina Louise Rothery a legendary anti-fracking campaigner from Frack Free Lancashire.
The full list of speakers were:
Paul Blomfield MP said “Energy policy should be focused on reducing carbon emissions. Now’s the time to be investing in renewable energy as the industry of the future, not falling back on fossil fuels that make it harder to hit our targets to reduce global warming.”
Tina Louise Rothery said, “This event is just one of so many like it that is happening across the world and I can think of no better place to echo the call to protect our precious communities from the harms of fossil fuels, than Sheffield. It is here that the sharp edge of a broken democracy can be so sorely felt with the the threat of fracking and the unwanted seismic testing that goes with it. It's been an excellent event with representatives from government, the anti-fracking campaigns, Unions and some dinosaurs... a family day with a purpose.”
Richard Souter, Sheffield Friends of the Earth campaigner and event organiser said, “Our government seems hell-bent on developing fracking on Sheffield’s doorstep. Fracking is not necessary, it will rip up our countryside, pollute our waters, increase air pollution and threaten wildlife habitats. Moreover, heavy traffic from the proposed fracking sites, carrying some of the worse pollutants, will be treated here in Sheffield at Ecclesfield.”
A short video below features the highlights from the rally. A video on our Facebook site has the full set of speakers.
Whilst the adults were listening to the serious messages from the speakers, the children enjoyed a number of activities from colouring in frack-osaurus dinosaurs to eating dinosaur cupcakes.
The rally ended with music from Sheffield Socialist Choir and Sheffield Samba Band whilst inflatable dinosaurs were deflated to signify the end of prehistoric fossil fuels.
The Star covered the rally in the printed edition on Monday 16 October 2017 and their on-line version has more photos and a video. A similar article appear in the Sheffield Telegraph.
At the General meeting the group reflected that overall the event went well, with some disappointment that the numbers were not greater in Barkers Pool. A lot of people, particularly Richard, Shaun, Mosborough Against Fracking and SCA and other groups who all contributed to making the rally happen were thanked for their hard work. Sincere thanks were also given to Michael Mouat for the filming and Prime Tiger Event Services for the PA system which many people said was excellent.
Jessica Ernst
Richard reported on an anti-fracking lunch with Jessica Ernst who has been responsible for a long running legal campaign in Canada.
Mass Demo Coach Trip to Kirby Misperton KM8
Will you give one day of your busy life to be part of a mass peaceful demonstration at the gates of a Fracking Site?
Join “100 Protectors” a peaceful, mass demonstration, coach trip to KM8 Frack Site, Kirby Misperton, North Yorkshire.
One way to affect this dirty business is to slow it down and send its costs rocketing. One way to do this effectively is to have so many Protectors/Demonstrators that the police are in the minority. We need at least 100 people to do that. With enough people willing to go for one day: you’d only have to go once a year!
To be notified of the dates please send your email or phone number to Disgruntled@riseup.net The first trip is looking like one day week 13th-17th Nov.
5 November – Sherwood Forest
A walk with talks and singing in Sherwood Forest, about fracking and the history of land rights, by amazing performers Three Acres and A Cow. Sign up to the Facebook event here. Afterwards, there will be talks & discussions at the nearby South Forest Centre – book tickets for this here.
Burns Supper
A Burns supper is being organised to support anti-fracking campaign for 20 Jan 2018. watch this space for more details.
ACTIONS:
On 14 October 2017 people from all over the world took action to protect our climate from fossil fuels. From groups fighting giant oil companies in Africa, to communities already feeling the impact of rising sea levels, the whole of Friends of the Earth’s global community united for a day of action. Our message to the world: keep fossil fuels in the ground. It’s our best hope of stopping the most devastating consequences of climate change. You can see what happened around the world here.
In Sheffield, the day of action began at Weston Park Museum when Steve Goodacre and Liddy Goyder from Sheffield Friends of the Earth and June Bhooshi from Sheffield Against Fracking handed over three fossil fuel dinosaurs for safe keeping to Louisa Briggs of Sheffield Museums. The dinosaurs represented the 3 types of fossil fuels (oil, coal and gas) which must remain unused if we are to avoid dangerous climate change. Research shows that more than 80 per cent of the world’s known coal reserves, 30 per cent of known oil and 50 per cent of gas reserves are unburnable if we are to have a safe climate.
 |
| Louisa Briggs of Sheffield Museums receiving 3 dinosaurs from June Bhooshi. |
 |
| The march from Weston Park Museum to the City Hall |
The full list of speakers were:
- MC - David Burley—Frack Free South Yorkshire
- Paul Blomfield MP - Sheffield Central MP and Shadow Brexit Minister
- James Eaden - President of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Trade Union Council
- Dave Kesteven - Eckington Against Fracking
- Deborah Smith - South Yorkshire Fossil Free Divestment Group
- Richard Dyer - Friends of the Earth Fossil Free and Clean Air Campaigner
- Tina-Louise Rothery - Frack Free Lancashire campaigner
 |
| Anti-fossil fuel and anti-fracking campaigners outside the City hall |
Paul Blomfield MP said “Energy policy should be focused on reducing carbon emissions. Now’s the time to be investing in renewable energy as the industry of the future, not falling back on fossil fuels that make it harder to hit our targets to reduce global warming.”
Tina Louise Rothery said, “This event is just one of so many like it that is happening across the world and I can think of no better place to echo the call to protect our precious communities from the harms of fossil fuels, than Sheffield. It is here that the sharp edge of a broken democracy can be so sorely felt with the the threat of fracking and the unwanted seismic testing that goes with it. It's been an excellent event with representatives from government, the anti-fracking campaigns, Unions and some dinosaurs... a family day with a purpose.”
Richard Souter, Sheffield Friends of the Earth campaigner and event organiser said, “Our government seems hell-bent on developing fracking on Sheffield’s doorstep. Fracking is not necessary, it will rip up our countryside, pollute our waters, increase air pollution and threaten wildlife habitats. Moreover, heavy traffic from the proposed fracking sites, carrying some of the worse pollutants, will be treated here in Sheffield at Ecclesfield.”
A short video below features the highlights from the rally. A video on our Facebook site has the full set of speakers.
Whilst the adults were listening to the serious messages from the speakers, the children enjoyed a number of activities from colouring in frack-osaurus dinosaurs to eating dinosaur cupcakes.
The rally ended with music from Sheffield Socialist Choir and Sheffield Samba Band whilst inflatable dinosaurs were deflated to signify the end of prehistoric fossil fuels.
The Star covered the rally in the printed edition on Monday 16 October 2017 and their on-line version has more photos and a video. A similar article appear in the Sheffield Telegraph.
 |
| The Star's article of the Rally |
Jessica Ernst
Richard reported on an anti-fracking lunch with Jessica Ernst who has been responsible for a long running legal campaign in Canada.
Mass Demo Coach Trip to Kirby Misperton KM8
Will you give one day of your busy life to be part of a mass peaceful demonstration at the gates of a Fracking Site?
Join “100 Protectors” a peaceful, mass demonstration, coach trip to KM8 Frack Site, Kirby Misperton, North Yorkshire.
One way to affect this dirty business is to slow it down and send its costs rocketing. One way to do this effectively is to have so many Protectors/Demonstrators that the police are in the minority. We need at least 100 people to do that. With enough people willing to go for one day: you’d only have to go once a year!
To be notified of the dates please send your email or phone number to Disgruntled@riseup.net The first trip is looking like one day week 13th-17th Nov.
5 November – Sherwood Forest
A walk with talks and singing in Sherwood Forest, about fracking and the history of land rights, by amazing performers Three Acres and A Cow. Sign up to the Facebook event here. Afterwards, there will be talks & discussions at the nearby South Forest Centre – book tickets for this here.
Burns Supper
A Burns supper is being organised to support anti-fracking campaign for 20 Jan 2018. watch this space for more details.
ACTIONS:
- Shaun will ask Jo if we can advertise trips on the website.
- Richard will circulate update from David Burley.
Sunday, 10 September 2017
Rally – Keep fossil fuels in the ground, skip fracking, go to renewables
Rally – Keep fossil fuels in the ground, skip fracking, go to renewables
On 14 October people from all over the world will be taking action to protect our climate from fossil fuels. From groups fighting giant oil companies in Africa, to communities already feeling the impact of rising sea levels, the whole of Friends of the Earth’s global community will unite for a day of action. Our message to the world: keep fossil fuels in the ground. It’s our best hope of stopping the most devastating consequences of climate change.
Here in Sheffield we have organised a fun family friendly rally outside the City Hall with the theme of keeping fossil fuels in the ground, skipping fracking and moving to clean renewables.
Because oil, coal and gas are seen as dinosaur fuels we would like as many dinosaur props as possible - inflatable dinosaurs, children’s t-shirts, face masks and placards etc. After the rally there will be a mass deflation of the inflatable dinosaurs to signify the end of fossil fuels.
Order of rally:
10.30 - People start to assemble at Barkers Pool – City Hall.
11.00 - Rally starts.
11.45 - Rally ends with a mass deflation of the inflatable dinosaurs
11:45 - 12:30 – music from Sheffield Socialist Choir and Sheffield Samba Band
Speakers include:
On 14 October people from all over the world will be taking action to protect our climate from fossil fuels. From groups fighting giant oil companies in Africa, to communities already feeling the impact of rising sea levels, the whole of Friends of the Earth’s global community will unite for a day of action. Our message to the world: keep fossil fuels in the ground. It’s our best hope of stopping the most devastating consequences of climate change.
Here in Sheffield we have organised a fun family friendly rally outside the City Hall with the theme of keeping fossil fuels in the ground, skipping fracking and moving to clean renewables.
Because oil, coal and gas are seen as dinosaur fuels we would like as many dinosaur props as possible - inflatable dinosaurs, children’s t-shirts, face masks and placards etc. After the rally there will be a mass deflation of the inflatable dinosaurs to signify the end of fossil fuels.
Order of rally:
10.30 - People start to assemble at Barkers Pool – City Hall.
11.00 - Rally starts.
11.45 - Rally ends with a mass deflation of the inflatable dinosaurs
11:45 - 12:30 – music from Sheffield Socialist Choir and Sheffield Samba Band
Speakers include:
- MC - David Burley—Frack Free South Yorkshire
- Paul Blomfield MP - Sheffield Central MP and Shadow Brexit Minister
- John Campbell - Deputy Convenor for Yorkshire and Humberside Unison
- Dave Kesteven - Eckington Against Fracking
- Deborah Smith - South Yorkshire Fossil Free Divestment Group
- Richard Dyer - Friends of the Earth Fossil Free and Clean Air Campaigner
- Tina-Louise Rothery - Frack Free Lancashire campaigner
We are planning for family/children friendly activities - colouring, models if possible. More details will be added as they are confirmed.
See https://www.facebook.com/events/420994184961818 for the Facebook event.
Friends of the Earth will be using the hashtags of #ProtectOurFutures and #NotHereNotAnywhere for the day of action on Saturday 14 October. Please take lots of pictures and post them on social media.
We'll have some "Don't Frack our Futures" props on the day which we'll circulate around. We are asking people to take selfies with the suggested posts:
Facebook: Today I'm asking Greg Clark MP to #ProtectOurFutures & our climate. Ask him to stop #fracking before it starts: http://bit.ly/2ypDxmm
Twitter: Today I'm asking @GregClarkMP to #ProtectOurFutures & our climate. Ask him to stop #fracking before it starts: http://bit.ly/2ypDxmm
See https://www.facebook.com/events/420994184961818 for the Facebook event.
Friends of the Earth will be using the hashtags of #ProtectOurFutures and #NotHereNotAnywhere for the day of action on Saturday 14 October. Please take lots of pictures and post them on social media.
We'll have some "Don't Frack our Futures" props on the day which we'll circulate around. We are asking people to take selfies with the suggested posts:
Facebook: Today I'm asking Greg Clark MP to #ProtectOurFutures & our climate. Ask him to stop #fracking before it starts: http://bit.ly/2ypDxmm
Twitter: Today I'm asking @GregClarkMP to #ProtectOurFutures & our climate. Ask him to stop #fracking before it starts: http://bit.ly/2ypDxmm
Monday, 15 May 2017
Energy Storage - May 2017
Energy Storage
Shaun's article about storing renewable electricity was published in the Sheffield Telegraph on Thursday 13 April 2017. The full text of it is here:
Critics of renewable energy suggest we’ll struggle to power the country because there are times when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining. However, a recent report by Friends of the Earth suggests that the majority of our electricity supply could run on renewables with the right mix of energy storage and smart technologies. Not only is this good for the environment, but it will create employment opportunities for people living in South Yorkshire’s cities.
Water is similar to renewable electricity because it is also intermittent. There are days, and even weeks, when the umbrellas can be put away, but everyone remembers the torrential downpours. The intermittency challenge for water was solved by storing it at different scales from water butts to giant reservoirs, thus allowing the taps to be turned on regardless of the weather.
The water butt storage equivalent for a solar home is to install a battery pack similar to Tesla’s Powerwall. The surplus electricity is stored for use when the clouds pass over during the day and at night when the sun has set. The battery would soon be exhausted if there were a number of consecutive cloudy days, but they could be topped up when there is excess wind power. Clearly it won’t allow homes in this country to be completely self-sufficient so other solutions will need adding to the storage portfolio.
Continuing with the water analogy, there are a number of technologies which could be classed as small dams. These include compressed air, flywheels, pumped hydro and large batteries. Typically they can help the national grid at peak times, but on their own they won’t solve the intermittency issue.
The large scale storage options, equivalent to big reservoirs, include Power to Gas. The basic idea is to run electrolysers whenever there is an oversupply of renewable electricity. These devices split water into its component parts of hydrogen and oxygen.
The hydrogen can be used to fuel hydrogen vehicles, which in principle could be plugged into homes to act as a power station on wheels. Another option is to store the hydrogen in storage tanks which can be converted back to electricity using a fuel cell when required. In some cases it can even be injected directly into the gas network. Because hydrogen can be difficult to store, it is often easier to mix it with other gasses to produce a green gas.
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a process which allows organic waste (for example, food, manure, sewage and grass) to rot down. The end result is a liquid fertiliser and a number of gasses including methane and carbon dioxide. The methane is normally cleaned up and burnt to generate electricity. However, it would probably be better to pump the methane into the national gas network where it can be used to generate electricity or to heat homes when there isn’t a lot of renewable energy. The carbon dioxide extracted from the AD process can be mixed with the hydrogen to produce more methane. Again this could be pumped into the gas network for use at a later time.
As the gasses have come from waste plant sources rather than digging up fossil fuels, the process can be considered carbon neutral and isn’t a threat to the planet’s climate.
The first stage of the renewable journey has been to install and demonstrate that renewables work. The big challenge for the second leg of the journey is to ramp up the UK’s renewable capacity along with storage and smart technologies. This will allow us to keep the lights on regardless of the weather, fight climate change and create jobs.
Shaun's article about storing renewable electricity was published in the Sheffield Telegraph on Thursday 13 April 2017. The full text of it is here:
Critics of renewable energy suggest we’ll struggle to power the country because there are times when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining. However, a recent report by Friends of the Earth suggests that the majority of our electricity supply could run on renewables with the right mix of energy storage and smart technologies. Not only is this good for the environment, but it will create employment opportunities for people living in South Yorkshire’s cities.
Water is similar to renewable electricity because it is also intermittent. There are days, and even weeks, when the umbrellas can be put away, but everyone remembers the torrential downpours. The intermittency challenge for water was solved by storing it at different scales from water butts to giant reservoirs, thus allowing the taps to be turned on regardless of the weather.
The water butt storage equivalent for a solar home is to install a battery pack similar to Tesla’s Powerwall. The surplus electricity is stored for use when the clouds pass over during the day and at night when the sun has set. The battery would soon be exhausted if there were a number of consecutive cloudy days, but they could be topped up when there is excess wind power. Clearly it won’t allow homes in this country to be completely self-sufficient so other solutions will need adding to the storage portfolio.
Continuing with the water analogy, there are a number of technologies which could be classed as small dams. These include compressed air, flywheels, pumped hydro and large batteries. Typically they can help the national grid at peak times, but on their own they won’t solve the intermittency issue.
The large scale storage options, equivalent to big reservoirs, include Power to Gas. The basic idea is to run electrolysers whenever there is an oversupply of renewable electricity. These devices split water into its component parts of hydrogen and oxygen.
The hydrogen can be used to fuel hydrogen vehicles, which in principle could be plugged into homes to act as a power station on wheels. Another option is to store the hydrogen in storage tanks which can be converted back to electricity using a fuel cell when required. In some cases it can even be injected directly into the gas network. Because hydrogen can be difficult to store, it is often easier to mix it with other gasses to produce a green gas.
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a process which allows organic waste (for example, food, manure, sewage and grass) to rot down. The end result is a liquid fertiliser and a number of gasses including methane and carbon dioxide. The methane is normally cleaned up and burnt to generate electricity. However, it would probably be better to pump the methane into the national gas network where it can be used to generate electricity or to heat homes when there isn’t a lot of renewable energy. The carbon dioxide extracted from the AD process can be mixed with the hydrogen to produce more methane. Again this could be pumped into the gas network for use at a later time.
As the gasses have come from waste plant sources rather than digging up fossil fuels, the process can be considered carbon neutral and isn’t a threat to the planet’s climate.
The first stage of the renewable journey has been to install and demonstrate that renewables work. The big challenge for the second leg of the journey is to ramp up the UK’s renewable capacity along with storage and smart technologies. This will allow us to keep the lights on regardless of the weather, fight climate change and create jobs.
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