Electric storm hits the South Bank

The energy will be provided by a 43 metre wind turbine and will interact with the wind creating a new show every night. This new winter attraction will be reminiscent of the Northern Lights and will open on 18 November as a world-first for London.

Visitors will be able to stroll inside Shell Electric Storm, passing between two rows of trees for half a kilometre, from near the London Eye to the IBM building. The South Bank itself will be brightly lit through the winter nights by the new attraction, with Shell Electric Storm clearly visible from the other side of the river.

Shell Electric Storm will run until mid-February and the trees will be illuminated every evening from dusk until 11pm. The colour, movement, music and light will constantly change, as Shell Electric Storm reacts in harmony with prevailing weather conditions, from high wind through to total calm.

A full size wind turbine in the South Bank Coach car park near Hungerford Bridge will generate the power for units in the trees lining the South Bank. Shell Electric Storm is supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, Fortis Bank, EDF Energy and international law firm, Norton Rose.

Clive Mather, Chairman of Shell UK, said: "Shell Electric Storm will bring to life the tremendous potential of renewable energy sources, and the future world of wind energy. It will demonstrate clearly the power that comes from just one wind turbine. Our support for the project is part of our ongoing commitment to develop renewable energy sources, and to bring wider understanding and awareness of their importance."

Stephen Timms, Energy Minister, said: "We are delighted to be part of the partnership bringing this innovative attraction to London. We must change the way we think about and use energy and Shell Electric Storm is a good place to start.

"Off shore wind will play an important role in our aim to reduce our carbon dioxide emissions by 60% by 2050 and increase the amount of renewable energy we produce. Shell Electric Storm will capture the imagination of Londoners and visitors to the capital and help build their awareness of renewable sources such as wind."