Low Carbon submits plans for Highlands wind farm which could power over 98,000 homes

Low Carbon submits plans for Highlands wind farm which could power over 98,000 homes

Renewable energy company Low Carbon has submitted a Section 36 planning application to the Scottish Government for the proposed Forsinain Forest Wind Farm in the Highlands, which could produce enough electricity for over 98,000 homes each year.

The wind farm would be situated roughly three kilometres north of Forsinard and 16 km south of Melvich. 

The proposed development would have up to 12 turbines with a combined generating capacity of 86 megawatts (MW), should it gain approval. If approved associated infrastructure would also be delivered such as new and upgraded access tracks, a substation, and on-site construction facilities.

Holding an installed capacity of up to 86 MW, the wind farm is anticipated to produce roughly 318,000 MWh of clean electricity per annum once built. This is sufficient for powering over 98,000 UK homes each year, while avoiding more than 135,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. 

The project includes forest-to-bog restoration within its footprint, helping to restore peatland habitats and aid long-term carbon sequestration alongside renewable energy generation.

Low Carbon hopes to set up a community benefit fund valued at £5,000 for every megawatt of installed capacity.

On the basis of the proposed 86 MW capacity, that would deliver roughly £430,000 per annum for local projects as well as community initiatives.

Andy Sloan, project development director at Low Carbon, said: “Forsinain Forest is a key part of our growing pipeline of onshore wind in Scotland, which if approved, will support Scottish climate targets, help accelerate the UK’s transition to clean energy and bolster energy security by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

“By combining clean energy generation with nature restoration and long-term community benefit, Forsinain Forest can help to deliver lasting economic value for the communities that host it.”

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