TWO new wind farms have received planning permission, paving the path for an additional 75MW of renewable energy production.
TagEnergy is set to build its first two UK windfarms, one in Ayrshire and another in Caithness, adding to existing portfolio of renewable and storage projects across the UK, France, Germany, Japan and Australia.
The nine-turbine Scienteuch site in Ayrshire is expected to generate 54MW of energy, and is joined by the five-turbine Cairnmore Hill project in Caithness with a capacity of 21.5MW.
The projects were acquired by TagEnergy from RES, one of the world's largest renewable energy companies, in November of last year, with RES leading the collaboration through the planning approval process before TagEnergy takes over control.
TagEnergy expects the combined generation of the two projects to power around 78,000 homes in Scotland.
Ricardo Folgado, the firm's UK managing partner, has said this will help to take pressure off household energy bills while helping Scotland achieve its net-zero goals.
“These projects will make important contributions to Scotland’s and the UK’s renewable energy generation and emissions-reduction goals at a time when additional wind capacity is urgently needed,” Folgado said.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with RES to deliver projects that provide affordable clean energy and long-term value to homes and businesses, and strengthened energy security for Scotland,” he added.
Euan Hogg, RES development project manager, said the approval recognised both the strategic importance of expanding Scotland’s renewable energy infrastructure.
He said: “The decision reflects the quality of the project design and the careful work undertaken to address local considerations while maximising the potential for renewable energy.
"Once constructed, both projects will deliver meaningful local and national benefits while supporting energy security."
The Sclenteuch project is expected to generate around £9.6 million of investment into the local economy through construction roles, on-site employment and the use of local services. In addition, the Scottish Government is expected to receive more than £29m in business rates over the site's projected lifespan.
Cairnmore Hill is forecast to attract around £1.4m in local investment and deliver about £8.75m in business rates for The Highland Council over its 35-year life.
The Caithness project was reduced in size from eight turbines to five following an initial application being rejected by Highland Council due to potential visual impacts of the site located around 4.5km from the town of Thurso.
