October 23, 2019
Scotland

Wind farm site’s ‘Dalek’ device providing remote security

By Gordon Calder | John O'Groat Journal | 22 October 2019 | www.johnogroat-journal.co.uk

A Dalek-like device at the Limekiln Wind Farm south of Reay is being used to provide “remote security”, according to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).

A spokeswoman for the energy firm said: “I am able to confirm that our subcontractor Wood Group is using the Armadillo system to provide remote security while carrying out work in the area. The security is temporary and is in place to provide protection for equipment and will be removed once work is completed in late November.”

The Limekiln Wind Farm is operated by Infinergy and Boralex and will involve the construction of 21 turbines at the site. They were given the go-ahead by the Scottish Government after the application was turned down by Highland Council.

A spokeswoman for Infinergy said: “These devices have not been deployed by us. We understand they are in place to help maintain the security of the equipment and materials of SSEN who are working across the area undertaking upgrades to the high-voltage lines across Caithness.

“There is an obligation on any contractor to maintain the security of their site and theft of high-value cabling is common across the country. These devices are commonplace now at sites where high-value items are being stored for use.”

David Craig said he was astonished to encounter this ‘Dalek-type’ device at the Limekiln site recently.

As reported in the John O’Groat Journal, the device was said to be Dalek-like and was described as “alarming and possibly sinister” by Highland councillor Matthew Reiss, who was concerned it could be used for recording and video purposes.

Reay resident David Craig expressed concern about the object which he came across while out for a walk.

“I was astonished to find a Dalek-type device at the junction of three tracks on the public walkway,” he said.

Mr Craig questioned the legality of the device and said no signs were on display “to inform that activities are being recorded”.

Councillor Reiss also raised concerns about CCTV signs which have been installed at the Golticlay Wind Farm, near Lybster.

Operator RWE plans to put up 19 turbines at the site which is four kilometres north of Lybster.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2019/10/23/wind-farm-sites-dalek-device-providing-remote-security/