The Welsh Government has granted Bute Energy planning permission for a 92MW wind development near Caerphilly and Pontypridd.
The development, Twyn Hywel, includes 14 wind turbines.
Today’s approval of the project means that construction is set to begin early next year, with a scheduled 2027 completion date.
Twyn Hywel is the first of 16 wind projects across Wales proposed by Bute Energy.
The company’s full portfolio represents a £3bn investment.
As an integral part of the Twyn Hywel project, Bute Energy has created the Twyn Hywel Community Benefit Fund, which has committed to invest more than £30m into the community over the 40-year life of the project.
This investment of £693,000 per year has been agreed by Bute Energy through engagement with local communities since 2021, with community representatives helping to make decisions on where and how the funds are invested in the local area.
In addition, through its Social Value Commitment, Bute Energy has pledged to match the skills and expertise of contractors with relevant community organisations and services to deliver further local investment around Twyn Hywel.
Stuart George, Managing Director of Bute Energy, said: “The Welsh Government’s decision to grant planning permission for Twyn Hywel is a significant landmark for Wales and Britain as we work to seize the opportunities of net zero and green energy.
“At the same time, projects like Twyn Hywel drive economic growth, create jobs and develop skills.
“Twyn Hywel is a significant opportunity for the people of Caerphilly and Pontypridd.
“We look forward to working with and investing in these communities over the coming decades, ensuring everyone shares in the wider benefits of the project and providing the local area with a proud legacy.”
If all of Bute Energy’s projects gain consent, they will provide 15% of the capacity needed to meet the UK government’s commitment to double onshore wind by 2030.
They would also generate 25% of the energy required to reach the Welsh Government’s target for 100% of Wales’ electricity to come from renewables by 2035.