July 17, 2022
Wales

Powys: two new wind farm plans revealed for near Llangurig

By Ruairi Walsh, Facebook Community Reporter | County Times | www.countytimes.co.uk

An energy provider has revealed plans for two more new wind farm projects in Powys.

Welsh based Bute Energy has put forward two scoping requests, submitted to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales, the body responsible for determining large scale energy projects in Wales, for two sites in Powys.

The company is estimating that the two energy parks could generate up to 145 MW of electricity, which is equivalent of the annual electricity needs of over 125,000 homes.

The first Banc Du Energy Park site would be located approximately 2km to the northwest of Llangurig and will include up to seven wind turbines.

The other Rhiwlas site would be situated around 2km southeast of Llangurig and includes proposals for the construction and operation of up to 15 wind turbines. The plans also have the potential to include photovoltaic solar panels and battery storage.

It comes within weeks of other plans being revealed for elsewhere in Powys, with 14 turbines earmarked for between Llanerfyl and Talerddig near Llanfair Caereinion, and proposals for the 17-turbine Garn Fach windfarm near Llanbadarn Fynydd going to the Welsh Government after being formally lodged in May.

Alasdair Adey, project manager at Bute Energy, said: “Bute is committed to being a primary driver in helping tackle the climate emergency in Wales, through unlocking and increasing renewable energy generation across Wales to help meet Welsh Government net zero targets.

“We are committed to working closely with local communities in relation to both the Banc Du and Rhiwlas projects. We look forward to engaging later this year and throughout the development process. Bute is committed to designing projects to the highest standards, working within the recognised guidance of the Welsh Government, and following the best practice of Wales’ national spatial strategy Future Wales.

“Our experienced team will be supported and guided by specialist advisers and technical experts to ensure our planning applications assist in addressing key national priorities to deliver a vibrant economy, achieve decarbonisation and climate‑resilience, and improve the well‑being of our communities.”

The company say they will be providing further information about the emerging plans during its first phase of early community engagement later this summer, where those interested in the projects will have an opportunity to find out more and speak to the project team.

This will be followed by a statutory consultation on the detailed proposals and draft technical documents before the plans are finalised and a planning application submitted in 2023.