June 21, 2007
U.K.
U.K.
Proposals for nine additional wind turbines at Crystal Rig wind farm in the Lammermuirs, where operators already have consent to double the size of the development, were lodged with Scottish ministers last week.
Natural Power Consultants, on behalf of operators Fred Olson Renewables Ltd, intend that the nine turbines, if approved, will be constructed alongside the 52 turbines that were given the green light in 2005 and are scheduled to be built in 2009.
There are currently 25 wind turbines at Crystal Rig.
The consent granted in 2005 regarding the 52 turbines was on the condition that 23 would lie within the Scottish Borders Council area, and the other 29 within East Lothian Council territory.
Project manager Clare Edwards said: “The Crystal Rig wind farm site has been well received by both consultants and the community since 2002 when the original scheme was given the go-ahead.
“With the increased grid capacity available for the Phase II scheme due a connection to the nearby electricity line, it was clear that there was potential for further turbines at the site.”
In 2005, concerns were raised about the safety of the wind farm when a 40 metre turbine blade, weighing several tonnes, shattered and flew off the turbine.
The construction of these new turbines has been entitled Phase II by the operators.
The new additions will raise the overall capacity of the windfarm farm to 225 MW.
“After a detailed scoping and consultation exercise, the nine additional locations were selected to minimise any additional environmental effects over and above those for the consented scheme,” added Clare Edwards.
22 June 2007
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/06/21/bid-to-extend-wind-farm-2/