Invenergy’s proposed extension to its 81MW Pencloe wind farm has cleared a crucial hurdle after council planners raised no objection to the scheme.
East Ayrshire Council’s backing is a key step for the 22.5MW extension project, which will go before Scottish Ministers for planning approval.
The proposal would see Pencloe wind farm grow to a capacity of over 100MW – enough to power approximately 128,000 Scottish homes.
The company’s plans are comprised of an additional five wind turbines at the existing site, generating 22.5MW in addition to the 81MW project that is currently under construction (pictured).
The extension will see Invenergy invest £4m over the lifetime of the project in nearby communities, on top of the £14m that the company recently pledged for communities in the region.
Managed by the 9CC Group, this additional investment will support community-led projects, with a focus on local infrastructure and energy efficiency.
Invenergy’s vice president and UK country manager Stuart Winter said: “Additional turbines at our existing Pencloe wind farm will help deliver cleaner, more reliable, affordable energy for households across Scotland and the UK.
“Following extensive community engagement with East Ayrshire Council, planning officers and consultees, we are looking forward to the Scottish Ministers determining our application in due course and helping the community meet its energy needs and goals.”
Developed in partnership with the local communities, Invenergy’s proposed extension has been designed to minimise disruption.
Building on years of engagement, Invenergy plans to continue using the establishing neighbour liaison forum to ensure local stakeholders remain central to its plans.
“As a long-term partner to East Ayrshire communities, we are fully committed to the people we power and intend to deliver a meaningful and lasting community benefit package,” Winter added.