SSE Renewables has been granted permission for a variation to the planning consent for the Strathy South wind farm project in Scotland.
Strathy South is located to the south of SSE Renewables’ operational Strathy North wind farm, approximately 12 km to the south of Strathy Village in Sutherland.
Consent had previously been granted for a 39-turbine scheme in 2018 following an independent public inquiry.
The revised consent will see turbine numbers reduced to 35 whilst increasing the tip heights from 135m to 200m and increase generating capacity at the site to up to 208MW.
SSE Renewables said the project will also deliver “significant net environmental gain” through the long-term restoration of extensive areas of degraded peatland, which will assist the Scottish Government in meeting its targets for peatland restoration.
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2023 and SSE Renewables will host “meet the buyer” events for the local and Scottish supply chain before then.
SSE Renewables project manager Jon Soal said: “We welcome the decision made by the Scottish Government to grant revised consent for Strathy South.
“This decision reflects the incredible levels of support received from the local community over the years and we are confident that Strathy South will build on the success and benefits of our existing Strathy North site.”