Perth-based SSE has welcomed the decision by Highlands Council to raise no objection to its proposed Gordonbush Wind Farm extension.
The site has been a part of the East Sutherland community for over five years now and its 35 turbines generate enough renewable energy each year to power around 60,000 homes
Councillors on the North Highland Planning Committee voted to raise no objection to the 15 turbine extension.
Michael Walker, SSE project manager, said: “We are a responsible developer and we look forward to building on the strong relationships we already have with the communities close to Gordonbush in East Sutherland.
“This sensitively designed project will blend well with the existing wind farm and will make best use of the existing infrastructure. The project could also bring significant socio-economic opportunities to the local area.”
Since Gordonbush windfarm was commissioned in 2012, it has delivered around £20 million in the procurement of goods and services from Highland businesses, including the local supply chain, during construction.
It has also provided the communities of Brora, Golspie, Helmsdale and Rogart with more than £1 million of funding for local projects through the Gordonbush Windfarm Community Fund.
Pixie Energy is an incubator and a facilitator of strategic research and project work, focusing on energy regulation, policy and markets at the local and national level. Find out more about Pixie Energy