The Welsh government has approved RWE Innogy’s common land applications to facilitate the construction and operation of the 33.6MW Mynydd y Gwair wind farm.
This final decision, announced by Cabinet Secretary Lesley Griffiths AM, follows the recommendation of an independent planning inspector who led a public inquiry into RWE Innogy’s application earlier this year.
The 16-turbine project was the subject of a February inquiry to deregister the common land near Felindre and provide alternative space.
Construction of the wind farm is expected to start in October.
The wind farm already had the support of Swansea Council, which granted the scheme planning permission. In February 2015, the project won a Contract for Difference worth £79.99/MWh for 2017/18.
RWE Innogy UK’s Mynydd y Gwair Wind Farm development manager Gwenllian Elias said: “This was the last hurdle required to help unlock a potential £52m investment.
“We are delighted with the decision and feel confident that this could have a positive impact on local suppliers and local companies.”
RWE Innogy UK will host a business breakfast tomorrow in Swansea as part of their plans to involve local companies.
Elias added: “Our next step now is to actually meet with local companies later this month. Over 100 delegates have already signed up to attend our business breakfast to explore the potential supply chain opportunities.”
Image: Goole Fields 1 wind farm (RWE)
Green light for RWE in Wales
Construction of Mynydd y Gwair wind farm expected to start in October
By EBS