Fewer turbines and reduced peat impact in revised Yell wind farm plans

Statkraft’s proposed changes to the Energy Isles Wind Farm in North Yell will see the overall number of wind turbines onsite reduced further from 23 to  18. 

The changes also decrease the infrastructure footprint of the project by 27% and reduce the total volume of peat required to be excavated by 43% from the previous amended application (August 2020).

The company is organising two free webinars to allow the local community an opportunity to learn more about the updated plans, particularly on the complex issues of peat management and ornithology.

The webinars will take place on the following dates, with information on how to join available on the project website (www.energyisles-shetland.co.uk).

·       Tuesday 5th October (6pm – 7pm) – Overview of revised plans

·       Thursday 7th October (6pm – 7pm) – Peat and Ecology

On the panels will be Charlotte Healey (Project Manager, Statkraft), Derek Jamieson (Director, Energy Isles) and environmental experts who have advised on the project so far.

The new plans include:

• 18 turbines with a tip height of 180m
• Installed capacity of approximately 126 MW
• Electricity generated equivalent to the annual consumption of over 157,000 homes
• Reduction in infrastructure footprint of 27% (based on August 2020 plans)
• 43% less peat excavated (based on August 2020 plans)

Speaking of the proposed changes, Derek Jamieson, Director of Energy Isles, said: “Statkraft has listened carefully to feedback. These alterations form part of the refinement process while still maximising electricity generation, which will increase the economic benefit for Yell and the Shetland Islands.”

Derek Jamieson added: “We are keen to keep local folk involved in the development. That’s why we’re hosting two public webinars to ensure that no question is left unanswered and that we deliver the best results for the people of Yell.”

Charlotte Healey, Project Manager for Statkraft said: “The support we’ve had so far from the local community has been incredible and their input, as well as discussion with statutory consultees has led to our most recent proposals. I really hope that those interested will join one of our webinars to learn more and ask any questions they might have.”

The revised plans and information on the webinars are available to view at
 www.energyisles-shetland.co.uk