Energy / ‘No significant impact’ on watercourses, SEPA says after new Viking complaint
SCOTTISH Environment and Protection Agency (SEPA) has received a complaint about more potential water pollution near to the Viking Energy wind farm.
Save Shetland’s Ernie Ramaker reported concerns about polluted water near to one of the wind farm’s turbines over the weekend, with photos shared on social media.
He contacted SEPA, which monitors activity around the windfarm, and Shetland Islands Council on Monday.
SEPA confirmed it had received a complaint, and SSE said it was “aware” of the reports.
However, the environmental protection agency said the pictures showed “a section of drainage ditches dug by SSE to capture and treat water”.
“This is an ongoing issue, which is being monitored, and currently shows no significant impact to nearby watercourses,” it added.
A spokesman for SSE Renewables said these were temporary drainage measures in the area, which had been installed to have a pH buffering effect on water draining from nearby watercourses.
“We continue to monitor and sample water on a regular basis, and we are working closely with our specialist contractors and relevant bodies to assess progress to identify if any further steps will be required in due course,” SSE added.
It comes after a report found the Burn of Lunklet may no longer be “significantly acidified” – but remains in a “poor condition”.
The burn was strongly affected by trace metals from a nearby borrow pit, used during Viking construction, leaching into the water.
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