Apr 04 2008
More funds to promote wind projects
Scotland, Apr 4: The Western Isles based community wind farm project has gained a whooping amount of £900,000 from the Big Lottery Fund. Three new turbines are proposed to be constructed which will have the capable of gaining an income of £150,000 from the sale of electricity.
The increased funding will be utilized for new projects and for creating more jobs. The Ore Valley Housing Association (OVHA) in Fife is funded with £200,000 to conduct the viability study for the proposed wind farm near Cardneden.
A public inquiry on the North Harris Scheme has been cancelled by the Scottish government in last September and the plans for the site at Monan were also delayed for a year on the grounds of objection raised by the Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).
While commenting on this Andrews Saunders, the OVHA chief executive said: “Even though we are small housing association the investment will make positive changes in many lives of people in Fife. This project will make use of the wind energy in an effective manner.”
In response to the grant the chairman of Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company, Lorne Macleod said: “The communities were upset over the delay in the project. Through the planning process the small scale schemes should be fast tracked.”
Earlier this week the agency has dropped its complaint considering the impact it creates on the unspoilt natural landscape of the area.
