The first turbine has been installed at the Gordonbush wind farm extension, despite the challenges presented by heavy snow and freezing temperatures, said developer SSE Renewables.
The 4.3MW Siemens Gamesa turbine is the first of 11 to be erected at Gordonbush Extension, which will generate 38MW of wind-powered electricity once fully operational.
Gordonbush Extension is scheduled to be operational in mid-2021.
SSE Renewables onshore projects head Derek Hastings said: “The team on site at Gordonbush Extension have done a tremendous job in trying circumstances.
“This is an important milestone in the build of our first subsidy free windfarm project and it has been a real team effort involving our SSE Renewables staff, contractors on site and Police Scotland, who have overseen the transport of large items to the location.
“All have been working safely and flexibly, dealing with COVID requirements, freezing conditions and using weather windows to best advantage.”
The development is the first to be built by SSE Renewables on a merchant basis, which means no subsidies were used to assist with its funding.