News / Government approval for Beaw Field wind farm plans
A PROPOSAL to build a 17-turbine wind farm at the southend of Yell has received planning consent from the Scottish Government.
Peel Energy’s Beaw Field development now hinges on whether Shetland will be connected to the UK mainland via an interconnector cable to allow the export of energy from large renewable projects in the isles.
The Beaw Field project with a capacity of 57.8MW is the second large scale wind farm proposal that has been granted consent from Scottish Ministers.
Peel Energy is also behind a proposal to build a 21-turbine wind farm on the outskirts of Lerwick.
The company’s managing director Muir Miller said he was encouraged by the local support they were receiving.
“This decision is another important step forward for Peel Energy and also helps the Shetland wind development community towards its renewable energy ambitions,” he said.
He said that Peel Energy was adding its voice to that of other island wind developers in calling for clarity and certainty over the long term grid connection and tariff arrangements needed to meet the economic development potential of wind energy.
“We are hopeful that Ofgem’s recent decision to reject the proposed 60MW sub-sea cable will quickly be replaced with robust plans for a larger scale, two way transmission link as part of a joined up, future orientated approach,” he said.
“We welcome the UK Government’s decision in October to allow island wind projects to take part in the next competitive Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction.
“Moving forwards there is more to be done in ensuring the auction arrangements are fair and balanced concerning island wind as distinct from other less established technologies in the competition.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
