Energy / Wind farm developer considers subsidy bid
THE TEAM behind the proposed Mossy Hill wind farm says it is now considering its bid for government subsidy after the development received planning permission.
Peel Energy’s 12-turbine wind farm, which secured planning approval from Shetland Islands Council earlier this month, is dependent on an interconnector cable being laid between Shetland the UK mainland to allow the export of energy.
The 600MW subsea HVDC cable hinges on Shetland wind projects winning subsidies in this year’s UK government Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction, which provides financial support for renewable projects.
The Mossy Hill wind farm, which would be located between Lerwick and Scalloway, received objections for a number of local residents who live near to the site as well as community councils and campaign group Sustainable Shetland.
Managing director of Peel Energy Muir Miller said the company is now considering its bid for the government support after getting the backing of councillors.
The long-mooted 103-turbine Viking Energy wind farm is also set to bid in the CfD auction.
“The recent planning approval for Mossy Hill wind farm brings us one step closer to providing a clean, affordable and secure source of electricity as well as long lasting and tangible benefits for Shetland communities and the surrounding environment,” Miller said.
“We are now considering our Contracts for Difference (CfD) bid, the consultation on the proposed HVDC link and the grid connection. We will continue to liaise with all relevant stakeholders in expectation of bringing this development forward to deliver its range of benefits.”
The Mossy Hill wind farm, which would have an output of up to 50 megawatts, was approved by Shetland Islands Council’s planning committee with a raft of conditions in a bid to mitigate the impacts of the development.
It is expected to have lifespan of 25 years before being decommissioned.
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