An application to extend a wind farm that has contributed millions of pounds to the Great Glen economy has been lodged with the Scottish Government.
Bhlaraidh Wind Farm Extension is a proposal to construct up to 18 turbines on land to the east of the existing Bhlaraidh Wind Farm development near Invermoriston, southwest of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, and is adjacent to the existing Bhlaraidh Wind Farm which began operating in 2017.
The proposed development would have an installed capacity in excess of 100 megawatts (MW) and contribute to the Scottish Government’s target to achieve net-zero emissions of all greenhouse gases by 2045.
If the application is approved by the Scottish Government Bhlaraidh Wind Farm Extension will add to SSE Renewables’ significant investment in the Highlands. Research by BiGGAR Economics found the development and construction of the existing Bhlaraidh Wind Farm generated more than £37 million in Gross Value Added to the Great Glen economy*.
"Bhlaraidh Wind Farm Extension is a chance to build on the success of the existing, neighbouring wind farm and deliver further investment and job opportunities to the Great Glen."
Craig Cunningham Project Manager for SSE Renewables
“Many local businesses benefited from the development and construction of Bhlaraidh Wind Farm – and continue to do so during its operational phase. The Bhlaraidh Wind Farm Extension will provide a fresh opportunity for further growth in the local economy.”
"By using the existing infrastructure at Bhlaraidh, we can shorten the duration of construction work and limit the number of new tracks required."
Jane Macdonald Consents Manager
“There has never been more urgency in the need to reduce emissions and provide clean, secure energy for future generations. Projects such as Bhlaraidh Wind Farm Extension, where much of the necessary infrastructure is already in place, can help to meet that need.”
More information on Bhlaraidh Wind Farm Extension can be found here.
*Source: Economic Impact Assessment of SSE Projects in the Great Glen, BiGGAR Economics, 2020