UK-based Infinergy has obtained approval from the Scottish Government to redesign the Tom nan Clach windfarm on Cawdor Estate.
With a grid connection date scheduled for 2018, the farm was approved in 2013 and features 17 turbines with an installed capacity of 2.3MW each.
First proposed to the Highland Council in August last year, the new proposal seeks to take advantage of recent technology gains and install 13 slightly larger turbines at the site to increase the renewable energy output by 26%.
Infinergy's managing director Esbjorn Wilmar said: “We are delighted with this decision. The redesign will increase the renewable electricity generated on the site by approximately 26%, using fewer turbines and their associated infrastructure.
“We started construction of the windfarm’s access tracks this summer and we are thrilled that it will be the better project that gets to be built on this fantastic site for wind energy.”
The company secured a contract for the windfarm last year and has since begun development and construction work this summer.
The Scottish Council for Development and Industry's (SCDI) regional director Fraser Grieve said: “the SCDI welcomes investment in projects in Highland. Such investment brings benefits in the form of employment and opportunities for local sub-contractors and others providing goods and services.
“This decision is hugely positive not just for this development but for the wider economy and drive to harness the renewable potential we have here.”
