October 19, 2012
Scotland
Scotland
Construction work starts at Ae forest for 71-turbine windfarm
by Sharon Liptrott, Dumfries & Galloway Standard | 19 October 2012 | www.dgstandard.co.uk
by Sharon Liptrott, Dumfries & Galloway Standard | 19 October 2012 | www.dgstandard.co.uk
Work has finally started on the £160m, 71-turbine Harestanes Windfarm at Ae Forest – almost 10 years since it was first proposed.
Scottishpower Renewables say construction will take two years and support more than 150 jobs.
In September 2007 the project was granted planning permission by Scottish ministers after an onslaught of opposition at a major public inquiry.
In 2003 it was set to have 180 turbines, eventually reduced to 71. Each turbine will stand 121.5 metres high.
The initial phase will involve making access roads through Ae Forest and Harestanes Heights. When the windfarm is complete 11km of tracks will be opened to the public.
Simon Christian from Scottishpower Renewables, said: “This is one of the largest renewable energy projects being developed anywhere in Scotland and it will make a significant contribution to carbon reduction targets in Scotland and the UK.”
The company are still working on the possibility of adding other turbines.
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/10/19/construction-work-starts-at-ae-forest-for-71-turbine-windfarm/