We’ve recently reported on the ever improving state of air quality due to the lockdowns imposed in most European countries.
If there is one thing we can learn from this is that we, as a species, is how reliant we are on fossil fuels to power our homes.
However, recently, Vattenfall has partnered up with Greencoat Wind UK to deliver a brand new wind farm, 5km to the east of Dalemellington between East Ayreshire and Dumfries and Galloway, South Kyle.
Largest Onshore Windfarm in the delivered by Vattenfall
The wind farm is thought to be the largest to be delivered by Vattenfall.
The delivery of the project will bring £38 million community benefit investment over the lifetime of the wind farm. This will be shaped by the needs of the communities in Dalemellington, Patna, New Cumnock and Carsphain.
Working in conjunction with Greencoat UK Wind, who will acquire the farm following its completion.
Construction delayed due to Covid-19
In line with the UK government guidance and to ensure the safety of employees in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, construction work has been postponed until it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Vattenfall will construction the wind farm and manage the asset on behalf of Greencoat for a minimum of 10 years. It also purchases the power for a period of 15 years.
Head of Market Development for UK Onshore, Frank Elsworth said:
“We are delighted that our agreement with Greencoat UK Wind means we can fulfil our commitments to the local community and contribute to major investment in the area. Onshore wind in Scotland has the potential to make a significant contribution to reaching net zero and is the cheapest form of renewable energy generation that brings us closer to that goal.”
Timeline to be confirmed
A timeline for the construction of the site is to be confirmed
Vattenfall is continuously monitoring precautions concerning Covid-19 and currently plan for the wind farm to be operational by Q1 2023.
Once construction the wind farm will power 170,000 homes across the UK, saving close to 300,000 tonnes in Carbon Dioxide emissions annually, the equivalent of taking around 65,000 cars off the road.
Key facts about South Kyle Wind Farm
- Total maximum capacity is 240MW
- Number off Turbines is 50
- Total height from tip to rotor blade is 149.5 meters
- South Kyle Wind Farm is located 5km to the east of Dalmellington
- Commercial operation of wind farm is planned to start Q1 2023
