The Scottish island of Eigg is one of the world's first islands to power itself exclusively with renewable energy. Locals say the change has boosted their quality of life, and that their energy bills are dropping.

 

"The system has been running about five years and it works at an average of about 85 percent from renewables and 15 percent from the generators," explains Eddie Scott, the island’s electricity expert.

 

Before the introduction of "Eiggtricty," as people call it, the hundred or so residents on Eigg got all of their power from diesel generators that were noisy, polluting and expensive to run.

 

Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Eigg gets more than its fair share of wind. From the sub-stations near the wind turbines and solar cells, a series of underground cables deliver power to homes across the island. To ensure there is enough energy for everyone, islanders cannot use more than five kilowatts at a time. For businesses, the limit is 10 kilowatts. A lot of the time though, says Scott, the island actually produces more energy than it consumes.