MUIRHALL ENERGY SUBMITS PLANS FOR 13 TURBINE WIND FARM IN PERTHSHIRE
Independent Scottish renewable energy developer, Muirhall Energy, has submitted proposals to the Scottish Government for permission to develop North Logiealmond Wind Farm, located north-west of Perth.
The proposed 13 turbine wind farm would be capable of generating up to 93.6MW of clean electricity in support of the UK and Scottish Government’s energy security and decarbonisation ambitions. Whilst also providing over £30m in community funding throughout the project lifespan, an offer of up to 10% shared ownership for local communities and enhanced public access to the Site.
In addition, the proposal is expected to bring over £11 m in direct and indirect regional economic benefit to Perth and Kinross during development and construction, plus over £1 m per year in non-domestic business rates.
The final proposals have been shaped through extensive consultation with local communities and key stakeholders. As a result of feedback received during the process, the development has been significantly reduced in scale. From an initial 20-turbine layout, it has been scaled back to 13 turbines, helping to minimise visual impacts.
Amanda Swan, Director of Development at Muirhall Energy commented:
“The final design of North Logiealmond Wind Farm is the result of extensive and prolonged community and stakeholder consultation. I would like to thank everyone that took part in the consultation process.
“At the heart of this project is collaboration with Scone Estates. The partnership is rooted in shared values - a commitment to tackling the climate emergency, supporting our local environment and delivering meaningful benefits to the local area and wider Perthshire region.”
The plans have been brought forward in partnership with Scone Estates and aligns with the Estates’ integrated land management strategy, ensuring that its natural resources are utilised responsibly and sustainably. The project will include a comprehensive biodiversity enhancement plan which commits to deliver 10% biodiversity net gain on the site.
William Stormont, Owner and Strategic lead for Scone Palace & Estates stated:
“Scone Estates is committed to protecting the local environment and proud to be involved in the proposed creation of renewable energy to assist with the transition to a more environmentally friendly production of energy in Perth & Kinross, thus protecting its very important ecological environment.
“We hope to do this whilst delivering meaningful benefits to local communities and enabling the regional economy to grow.”
Alongside biodiversity enhancement, supply chain opportunities and regional economic investment, North Logiealmond Wind Farm would also deliver a sector leading community benefit package comprising construction phase funding of £65,000, alongside an operational community benefit fund of £7,000 per MW, equating to £650,000 per year, index-linked, throughout the project’s operational lifespan. Communities are also invited to explore the potential for 10% community shared ownership of the wind farm.
During the development phase Muirhall Energy have also awarded over £30k to Perthshire community groups to support local initiatives and projects as well as working in partnership with Earth Energy Education, a local company which specialises in schools and STEM engagement on climate change.
Amanda Swan continued:
“Our work with the local community doesn't stop here. We will continue our discussions, alongside our wider support for community initiatives, as the plans for North Logiealmond progress through the planning process.”
Further information on the North Logiealmond project can be found online at www.muirhallenergy.co.uk/projects/48-north-logiealmond.