A SMALL-SCALE renewable energy project in Somerset could soon be charging cars – to raise money for the community.

For centuries, Cheddar made good use of the power of the River Yeo, with more than a dozen mills along the first half mile using the waterway to run turbines.

Now, a new initiative may tap this power once again.

A grant from the government’s Community Energy Fund (funded by the Department of Energy, Security and Net Zero, and managed by South West Net Zero Hub), is being used to investigate whether a small hydropower system could be created on the site of the former Cox’s Mill Hotel.

A feasibility study is underway to understand how the system could be installed – with all profits going to community projects – with the scheme overseen by the Cheddar Community Partnership group.

When Cox’s Mill was demolished, it exposed the final effort to take power from the Yeo: a 1957 turbine in the mill’s basement to generate electricity – a modest 8kW peak.

The old turbine, which it is hoped can be retained

Campaigners for the new project hope the old turbine will be kept as a historic feature alongside the new system, which could generate an estimated 200,000kWh of power each year.

“As part of the vision, it is hoped a small cluster of EV charging points could also be installed with anyone topping up knowing it would be powering their car directly from the water rushing past,” a spokesperson said.

“The installation would also aim to be an educational addition to the overall attraction of Cheddar Gorge, explaining to visitors how the renewable energy is generated, including live displays showing how much is being generated at that moment and over time.”

The partnership has the support of landowners Cheddar Caves (Longleat Enterprises Limited) and Bristol Water, with the study set to be completed this year.

It will also be undertaking community engagement in the coming months, presenting the idea to residents and asking for feedback.

Anyone who would like notification of opportunities to get involved should email cheddarhydro@gmail.com.

READ MORE: Environment news from your Somerset Leveller