An energy expert wants to convert the West Pier into a wind farm in a bid to turn Brighton and Hove into one of the greenest cities in the world.

David Lockie, 25, from Brighton, thinks the crumbling iron structure could be rebuilt to harness wind and other sustainable power sources.

His other proposals include running hydrogen-powered buses in the city centre.

David said: "Brighton and Hove is lucky because it has not only got the natural resources to make a real go of sustainable energy but it has the mindset as well.

"People here are aware of the potential of greener energy sources.

"I know if you mention the idea of wind turbines on the pier you will have people shouting blue murder but there are other options as well."

David works for a company which sets up links between businesses working with hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

He said: "People object to the idea of big wind farms and say it is just not viable but it can work on a much smaller scale.

"You could have a wind turbine on your house, solar panels and a hydrogen fuel cell and that would provide much of your energy needs.

"It's this radical idea of decentralising. Rather than getting all your power from one big station, one national resource, you have your own power supply.

"Businesses can benefit as well."

Hydrogen, an alternative fuel for cars, heating and electricity, can be cleaner than oil or natural gas and can be easily stored.

A car running on a hydrogen-powered fuel cell produces only water vapour as a waste product.

David said: "Hydrogen-fuelled buses are another concept that could benefit Brighton. They could run up and down Kings Road.

"People will tell you that these power sources are too expensive and not financially viable but there is an island off Norway that now runs on hydrogen and wind energy only.

"In Scotland they are looking at a scheme whereby some farmers can run their farms off energy produced by their organic waste. That's something that could really work in Sussex.

"The technology is out there and Brighton could be in the front line of these new developments."

Friday January 28, 2005