Lewis Wind doubles island holdings

Lewis Wind Power partners EDF and Amec Foster Wheeler have acquired the consented 162MW Uisenis project in the Outer Hebrides off Scotland.

The deal “shows LWP’s commitment to developing low-carbon renewable energy on the Isle of Lewis”, said the joint venture.

Uisenis, also known as Eishken and Muaitheabhal, will feature 45 turbines and is around 20km south of LWP’s consented up to 180MW Stornoway wind farm.

“The joint capacity of up to 342MW is a crucial part of building the case for an interconnector to the Scottish mainland which is estimated to require over 350MW of committed project power to be viable,” said the partners.

“The interconnector is essential to make sure electricity can be exported from the island to the wider UK electricity grid.”

The developer is hoping to enter the UK’s next Contracts for Difference auction, although it has yet to be confirmed whether so-called ‘remote islands wind’ will be accommodated.

EDF Energy Renewables chief executive Matthieu Hue said: “The acquisition of Uisenis shows EDF Energy Renewables and Amec’s commitment to developing remote island wind and delivering significant benefits for consumers and the community.

Eishken owner Nick Oppenheim said: “The resources available on the Eishken estate, and the Western Isles in general, means that it is an excellent location for renewable energy projects and, as such, the company is also developing a 300MW pumped storage hydro project immediately adjacent to the Uisenis wind farm.”

Image: an artist’s impression of the Uisenis project on the Eishken Estate (EDF)