BayWa r.e. UK Ltd. granted consent for wind farm near Loch Ness

Renewable energy company BayWa r.e. has received planning approval from the Scottish Government for Corriegarth 2 Wind Farm, near Gorthleck and south-east of Foyers.

An extension to the operational Corriegarth Wind Farm owned by Greencoat UK Wind Plc., the consented scheme is said to be able to produce enough clean, domestically sourced renewable energy to meet approximately 82 per cent of the domestic electricity demand in Inverness.

For the Corriegarth 2 Wind Farm, around 100 hectares of peatland will be restored and rejuvenated as part of a comprehensive habitat enhancement plan. Additionally, the wind farm will actively support the broader regional eagle management plan, which is currently underway.

Once operational, Corriegarth 2 will deliver a community benefit fund of over £330,000 a year, totalling just under £10 million during the 30-year life of the wind farm, to support local charities and community projects.

The construction of Corriegarth 2 Wind Farm is anticipated to inject an estimated £11 million into the Highland economy, with £32 million spent in Scotland overall.

John Milligan, managing director at BayWa r.e. UK Ltd., said: “This marks a milestone wind project consent for our UK team, being fully BayWa r.e. led from inception to planning permission.

"By developing an extension to an operational project, we have been able to take advantage of existing access and grid infrastructure to minimise impacts whilst making a significant contribution to net zero targets. We appreciate the support and collaboration with our long-term partners at Greencoat UK Wind Plc., owners of the existing Corriegarth Wind Farm, throughout the development process of Corriegarth 2.”

Stratherrick and Foyers Community Council had objected to the extension.

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