August 23, 2015
Scotland

Discussion on new wind turbines

23 August 2015 | www.stornowaygazette.co.uk

The council are asking the public to respond to a consultation on wind energy development, in a move which could see the building of wind turbines on the islands.

The authority have released an online consultation which includes maps in what they call a ‘spatial strategy’ looking at the possibility of building the turbines, the development of which has been controversial.

Maps on the council’s website clearly show proposed areas for new turbines.

The document’s analysis appears to conclude that Harris and Lewis are largely unsuitable terrain for wind turbines. But the council has shown support for the future of renewable technology development in Harris and Lewis.

Councillor Alasdair MacLeod, chairman of the Sustainable Development Committee, said: “The generation of power from wind energy has potential throughout our islands albeit at different scales in differing parts of the islands.

“Although there are constraints in relation to the resource, the Comhairle is supportive and seeks to encourage appropriate renewable energy generation projects.

“Given the Islands’ resources, wind energy has the potential to continue delivering many benefits to communities and individual householders.”

Residents and businesses now have three months to respond, with the deadline for submissions on November 20th.

Councillor MacLeod added: “I would certainly wish that any interested party has the opportunity to comment before any new policy is applied.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2015/08/23/discussion-on-new-wind-turbines/