Process underway to extend lifespan of Yell wind farm

THE DEVELOPER behind plans for a wind farm in Yell has now formally lodged an application to extend its lifespan by 15 years.

Developer Peel wants the 17-turbine Beaw Field wind farm to have consent to operate for 40 years instead of the existing 25 years.

It has yet to be constructed, but last week the wind farm was successful in securing government subsidy – paving the way for its development.

Peel has now lodged a section 36 variation request with the Scottish Government.

In these documents the developer says an extra 15-year operational period would result in one additional permanent full-time equivalent employee for operation and maintenance.

There are no changes to the number of turbines, layout or any of the other associated infrastructure previously approved by the Scottish Government in 2017.

The wind farm is expected to be operational by 2026, with construction likely to take between 18 and 24 months.

Peel also secured government subsidy last week for its smaller Mossy Hill wind farm on the outskirts of Lerwick.

Scottish ministers previously said it was appropriate to allow Peel to extend the date when construction needs to start by from November 2022 to 2024.