Nadara, the largest independent power producer (IPP) of onshore wind in Europe, has submitted a planning application to decommission the existing Beinn Ghlas wind farm and repower the site with up to seven modern wind turbines, marking a significant step forward in Scotland’s renewable energy future.
A process of replacing older turbines with fewer, more efficient, and higher-capacity models, repowering is an essential industry practice that supports the continued growth of renewable energy generation. Repowering offers a pathway to decarbonisation and brings an array of benefits – acting as an energy security asset, providing economic opportunities and benefiting communities through local investment and community benefit. Located in Argyll and Bute, the current Beinn Ghlas wind farm consists of 14 turbines, with a total installed capacity of 8.4 MW. The Beinn Ghlas wind farm repowering planning application proposes the installation of seven turbines, each with a maximum tip height of up to 149.9 m, increasing its total installed capacity to between 30 – 40 MW, over 3.5 times the current output. Nadara is committed to a circular decommissioning strategy for the existing Beinn Ghlas wind farm aligning with circular economy, just transition, and greenhouse gas emissions reduction objectives.
The project will also increase local community benefit funding in line with best practice UK guidance, which could equate to approximately £168 000/y. Nadara is considering approaches which broaden the geographical reach of the Community Benefit Fund (CBF) and will explore the potential for electricity payment support through the CBF.
The environmental impact assessment report (EIAR) was produced by lead consultant RSK with the support from a wider team of consultants. Nadara plans to include mechanisms to support local suppliers during the tendering process.
Joanna Thornton, External Project Manager, Joanna Thornton Project Development & Management Services Ltd, said: “Beinn Ghlas wind farm has been a proud part of Argyll and Bute’s renewable energy landscape for more than 26 years. This repowering project not only secures its future but ensures that the benefits to local communities will grow substantially.”
Karl Parker, Development Manager, Nadara, added: “Working in partnership with a diverse team of subject matter experts, I was proud to contribute to the successful submission of the Beinn Ghlas Repowering. Modernising our existing portfolio is crucial for preserving and enhancing clean electricity capacity.”
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