From 2013, customers living within two kilometres of the company’s north Cornwall-based windfarm are eligible for a 20 per cent discount on Good Energy’s standard rate. That could save a typical customer around £100 a year.
Local tariff customers will also receive an annual bonus if the turbines generate more electricity than expected.
Onshore wind is supported by 66% of the public, according to government research and Good Energy said there is evidence to suggest that communities become more supportive when they benefit from windfarms directly.
Juliet Davenport, CEO of Good Energy, said: “When we researched opinion in the local community, there was a very positive response from residents with 68 per cent of those surveyed saying they would consider switching to a Good Energy local tariff once the benefits were explained to them.”
The company plans to roll out the local tariff model as it develops other windfarms.
“Wind power has a huge role to play in meeting the UK’s future energy needs, and we think that it’s only right that our local communities should be recognised for their contribution to tackling climate change and reducing the UK’s reliance on expensive imported fossil fuels,” she added.