Renewables developer RES has overcome more than a decade of legal wrangling to secure planning permission for the 90MW Llanbrynmair wind farm in Powys, mid-Wales.
The application for the 30-turbine project was first submitted on 27 March 2009.
RES senior development project manager Chris Jackson said: “Llanbrynmair wind farm will play an important role in helping Wales to meet its target of 70% of electricity to come from renewables by 2030, a key action as a country in our mission to limit global warming.”
The UK department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) originally refused the project, in line with local objections.
But the decision was later quashed by the High Court in 2015, following a Judicial Review submission by RES.
In granting permission today, BEIS cited the need to move toward low-carbon energy generation as the dominant reason for the change of heart.
“In reaching his decision, the Secretary of State has attached substantial weight to the urgent need for new and particularly low carbon generating infrastructure of the capacity of the Development,” said BEIS head of energy infrastructure planning Gareth Leigh.
“The Secretary of State considers that the amendment of the target in the Climate Change Act 2008 on 26 June 2019 increases the weight that should be attached,” he added.
As part of the conditions attached to the planning permission, RES will have to submit new plans for the abnormal indivisible load route.
RES head of wind projects John Boyce said: “This a great day for renewable energy in Wales and for the country’s transition to a low carbon economy.
“Llanbrynmair, and the other renewable energy projects like it being developed in Wales, will provide significant inward investment and generate low-cost energy.
“This will help Wales to both create and retain the sustainable, skilled jobs needed in a low carbon economy.”
RES estimates that the Llanbrynmair will deliver at least £8m in local economic investment by using local companies and services.