Date: 17/01/2012. Story submitted by: Anne Greaves

Sheffield Council has granted planning permission for a renewable energy scheme which could see a waterwheel installed in Kelham Island by 2014.

The scheme has been developed by local social enterprise Sheffield Renewables with support from regeneration officers at the council and Kelham Island Museum.

The Kelham Island Hydro scheme comprises a 'modern' waterwheel to be located in an existing wheel pit and channel system adjacent to Kelham Island Brewery.

The replacement wheel will be designed for a flow of two tonnes of water per second, generating around 75,000kWh of electricity per year - the amount of electricity consumed by approximately 20 typical family homes.

As well as generating clean energy, the waterwheel would be a major visitor attraction in-keeping with the rich industrial heritage of the area.

Rob Pilling, managing director at Sheffield Renewables, said: "The Kelham Island hydro scheme will bring an iconic renewable energy scheme to this popular site in the heart of the city.

"The project is driven by local volunteers, inspiring members of the community to contribute their time and work together.

"Gaining planning permission is a huge boost to our efforts and we are hopeful that we could see a water wheel return to Kelham Island by 2014."

Sheffield Renewables can now continue to obtain other permissions and licenses needed to develop Kelham Island Hydro.