Independent developer Muirhall Energy has begun scoping on two Section 36 applications to increase tip heights at its consented 12-turbine Hopsrig and eight turbine Loganhead onshore wind projects in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland.
The sites were consented last year and Muirhall is now looking to increase the tip heights to 200m for all turbines, and introduce an extra turbine to both sites, bringing the generating capacity for each project to more than 50MW.
Hopsrig has consent for 140-metre turbines and was slated for a 42MW capacity while Loganhead had consent for 135-metre tips and 25.6MW capacity.
The company has also announced its intention to increase the annual community benefit payment from the industry standard of £5,000 for every MW of capacity built to £7,000.
Combined with the use of more powerful turbines, that would see the total funds on offer to local organisations jump from £300,000 to £900,000 each year.
Muirhall Managing Director Chris Walker said: “The new Hopsrig and Loganhead proposals are a natural progression following the establishment of Crossdykes Wind Farm.
“Muirhall is excited to maximise the renewables potential of this area, for the landowners, for the local communities and as a further contribution towards achieving the net zero carbon economy which is so crucial for us all.”
Project manager Jason Morin added: “Muirhall Energy has formed a positive relationship with many local residents and organisations in the Annandale and Eskdale area following the construction of our Crossdykes development.
“Our investment in this community is making a real difference to residents, initiatives and projects, such as through our £100,000 Crossdykes Initial Investment Fund last year.
“This is an exciting time for all involved and we look forward to building on our strong community relationships as we work to deliver these projects.”