Fred Olsen Renewables has welcomed Scottish Ministers’ approval of consent for the 20MW Paul’s Hill 2 wind farm in Moray.
The six-turbine site, located 5km West of Upper Knockando, is an extension of the existing operational Paul’s Hill wind farm (pictured), which was constructed in 2006.
With construction anticipated to commence in 2022, the project will be operational by 2023. Combined, the 34-turbine wind farm will be capable of producing over 85MW of electricity.
Fred Olsen Renewables UK development director Finley Becks-Phelps said it was “delighted” to get the consent.
He added: “We have worked for several years to design this project [making sure] our proposals reflect feedback from many stakeholders, including the local community.
“To date, Fred. Olsen Renewables has contributed more than £800,000 to the communities closest to the Paul’s Hill Wind Farm, and Paul’s Hill II will also deliver a raft of benefits.
“This includes creating up to four full time roles, including up to eight related roles during the operation period and delivering opportunities for local contractors. The wind farm will also provide over £3m in community benefit to support sustainable community initiatives.
Project Manager for lead EIA consultants Natural Power Kirstin Leckie commented: “Having worked with the communities closest to Paul’s Hill and Paul’s Hill 2 over the last few years, I hope that today’s announcement will be welcome news locally.
“I hope the project will deliver a long-lasting positive legacy for everyone. This consent is a great step towards meeting the country’s national renewable energy targets and the movement towards net zero.”