Biodiversity and benefits focus as proposals for Quantans Hill Wind Farm are submitted to planning
- Consent sought for up to 14 turbines and battery storage investment near Carsphairn, comprising 90MW of wind and 50MW of battery capacity
- Wind farm would generate enough electricity to power around 80,000 homes a year
- Project to build on Vattenfall’s track record in delivering local job and business opportunities
- Plans prioritise 270 hectares of biodiversity improvements - including restored heathland, native tree planting and peatland restoration covering equivalent of 190 football pitches - as well as new tracks for walkers
Vattenfall has today submitted to planning proposals for a 14 turbine wind farm and battery storage scheme near Carsphairn in Dumfries and Galloway.
If consented, Quantans Hill Wind Farm could increase Scotland’s renewable energy capacity by around 90MW – enough to power 80,000 homes - with up to £16million-worth of community benefit funding for the local area. Its 50MW battery storage scheme will also boost grid stability and energy security.
The company has undertaken a two-year community engagement process, and extensive environmental assessments, which have helped mould the proposed design for Quantans Hill Wind Farm. The proposal will provide significant biodiversity improvements including peatland restoration, planting of native broadleaf trees and extensive plans to improve the habitats of local wildlife such as black grouse.
Quantans Hill will also create opportunities for jobs, businesses and community benefits for the local area. This builds on Vattenfall’s approach at South Kyle Wind Farm, the under-construction project north of Carsphairn which has, according to independent analysis, supported 270 jobs in south west Scotland, and seen an estimated £44million worth of business awarded to companies based in the south west1.
The proposed wind farm could also enable the protection of a site of significant historic interest – the crash site of a World War 2 aircraft believed to be carrying an early radar prototype – with accessible tracks installed to enable visitors to explore the hillside.
Matt Bacon, Project Manager for the Quantans Hill Onshore Wind Farm, said
“Renewable power helps make Scotland less reliant on fossil fuels, which are at risk of huge price shocks due to international events beyond the control of people here in Dumfries and Galloway.
“But we also know that wind farms can really boost communities and regional economies, which is why our proposal for Quantans Hill Wind Farm has been designed to benefit wildlife and nature, and create opportunities for local businesses and jobs.”
Find out more about Quantans Hill Wind Farm here and view the planning application here.
View a short video animation showing the evolution of the site design here.
Notes to editors
1. Figures from independent analysis conducted by Biggar Economics – read more here
See also
Vattenfall's response to the UK Government's Clean Power 2030 Action Plan
Responding to the publication of the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan
Record £200,000 awarded to Aberdeen Communities for Climate-Smart Projects
The latest round of funding from the Vattenfall Unlock Our Future Fund has awarded grants to 20 community organisations.
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Clashindarroch II Onshore Wind Farm is looking for a Wildcat Project Officer to lead ambitious plans to support the area’s wildcat population.