Fred Olsen Renewables has applied to the Scottish government for permission to repower its Windy Standard Wind Farm in Dumfries and Galloway.
The company is proposing to repower the earliest phase of site, located 8km north-east of Carsphairn and 10km south of New Cumnock.
The plans would see the removal of 36 turbines and eight wind machines up to 200 metres to tip erected in their place.
If approved, the plans will bring forward partnerships that will create jobs in Dumfries and Galloway, contribute towards net zero targets and support a circular economy.
The company has been working closely with the community to develop its proposals since early 2021 and the feedback has shaped the final plans and associated local partnerships.
In addition to providing a community benefit fund of over £7m to the local area, the company has established a number of collaborations to maximise the benefits that the project can deliver.
This includes a partnership with ReBlade to explore opportunities to create items for use in the local area from the recycled blades, such as playparks, bus shelters and bike racks.
Julie Aitken, Senior Project Manager at Fred Olsen Renewables, commented: “Windy Standard Wind Farm has been operating for over 25 years and was one of the first wind farms in Scotland. It will also be one of the first to be repowered.
“We want our proposals to celebrate this legacy, and this includes making sure that our plans lead the way in identifying solutions for the recycling and repurposing of turbine blade materials.
“Our submission to the Scottish government reflects the extensive stakeholder engagement that we have undertaken. We are pleased by the response our plans have received and are confident that they can lead the way when it comes to reusing blades – as well as supporting the local economy and playing an important role in Scotland’s net zero transition.”