Green light for winds farms to power 90,000 homes

TWO wind farms that could power more than 90,000 homes have been given the go-ahead by the Scottish Government.

Energy minister Fergus Ewing announced approval had been granted for the 59-turbine Dorenell wind farm on the Glenfiddich estate, near Dufftown in Moray.

The 177 megawatt (MW) project could provide enough power for 84,000 houses – double the number of homes in Moray.

The six-turbine, 21 MW extension to the 104 MW Muaitheabhal wind farm on the Eisgein estate in Lewis will add capacity to power an additional 9,000 homes.

Consent for the Muaitheabhal wind farm was granted in January 2010 but has yet to be built.

Infinergy Ltd (UK) applied to build the Dorenell wind farm in 2008 and following an objection from Moray Council the project was referred to a public inquiry with the reporter recommending approval.

The scheme split the community with 646 objections and 615 letters of support.

The £250 million project will create about 75 jobs and provide community benefits worth about £350,000 a year.