Possible wind farm for Scottish Borders

A new wind farm development could be established on the Scottish Borders following applications for testing. Banks Renewables have applied to install test equipment at the site in order to see whether wind speeds are suitable for the development of a new wind farm.

The Hamilton-based green energy firm is seeking permission for the erection of a wind mast at Heriot. The 80-metre mast will be used to check if the site would be a suitable area for the installation of new renewable wind technology. 

In order to ascertain if a site is suitable, extensive testing needs to take place, according to Phil Dyke, development director at Banks Renewables. Technical assessments and environmental tests must be completed to ensure that the site is completely suitable before development begins.

The erection of the mast is a vital part of this process, continued Mr Dyke, as it will reveal whether the site is too windy or has enough wind for the turbines to function correctly.

“It also allows us to provide the community with forecasts of likely energy production from the proposed wind farm. Beyond that the information collected will also enable us to come up with the most sensitive possible design of the project," he said. 

It is expected that the Scottish Borders Council will approve the installation of the mast in February. Once approval is granted, the mast will be erected within a few months. 

If testing confirms that the site is suitable for a wind farm, Banks Renewables plans to construct up to seven wind turbines, each of which will measure around 125 metres high. The firm is currently at the earliest stages of planning for the wind farm and has started an extensive consultation with the local area.

“The input and feedback of local families and business will be hugely important over the coming months. Local people will have a very clear say in shaping our proposals. Our experience shows more active community participation results in better outcomes for all concerned," said Mr Dyke.