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Wind farm bosses in expansion talks
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The county’s first wind farm could produce enough energy to power almost half of Kettering if plans to extend the Burton Wold site go forward.
Seven more wind turbines could be added to the existing 10-turbine site in Burton Latimer, to help produce more environment-friendly energy.
Burton Wold Wind Farm Extension Ltd is currently consulting with Kettering Council and other agencies to assess the environmental impact of the development.
It comes after the company was granted planning permission to erect a 50ft mast to measure wind speed on the site.
More than 7,000 homes in the borough could benefit if plans get the go-ahead. It would take the number of homes capable of being powered by the wind farm up to 17,000.
Unlike traditional power stations, wind farms do not produce greenhouse gases which are contributing to climate change.
A planning application is likely to be submitted later this year. Stuart Beatty, from Burton Wold Wind Farm Extension Ltd, said the extra turbines would help to produce the equivalent 41 per cent of the borough’s energy.
He said: “We believe the wind farm has gone down well with the local community and that there’s a necessity for renewable energy. It’s an apt time to extend.”
He defended claims that the wind farm is not efficient, saying: “Some people have raised questions but I think some of it is based on old, out-dated turbines.
“If the wind blew at 15mph all day, every day, then the wind turbines would be 100 per cent efficient. However,
there’s no consistent wind speed.
“Our turbines are currently about 25 per cent efficient, compared with those in the North Sea which are 32 per cent efficient, but then there’s the cost and environmental impact of building in the sea.”
The extra urbines at Burton Wold would be situated at the north end of the site and there would be consultation with residents living nearby.
Cranford resident Mavis Thornton can see the wind turbines from her home in St Andrew’s Lane.
She said: “I had reservations to start with but I’m coming round to it.
“If it can help to generate electricity then it’s a good thing, providing they’re not too near people’s houses. We shouldn’t get swamped by them ““ there should only be small pockets of turbines across the area.
“I also think residents should be given more information as to how well they’re doing to see if it’s worth it.”
She said: “I don’t think the wind farm is an eyesore, I actually think they’re quite attractive.”
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