First power from Gordonbush wind farm
Electricity has been generated for the first time at SSE’s 70MW Gordonbush wind farm near Brora.
Work has been progressing well since construction started in Autumn last year and turbine deliveries are well underway, with 15 of the 35 turbines fully erected on site.
The first array was energised this week and two turbines are exporting power to the national grid.
SSE’s Project Manager, Rod Crawford, said: “We are delighted that we are now beginning to export power from Gordonbush wind farm. This is a major milestone and means that we remain on target for commissioning around the end of this financial year.
“We would like to extend our thanks again to the community for their patience so far during the construction of the project, and in particular, during the turbine deliveries.”
Brora Community Council chairperson, Kathleen Cunningham, said: “This is an important day for the community as it signifies that Gordonbush is nearing completion. We have worked closely with SSE since the start of the project to ensure that the community is kept up to date and considered properly during the construction works and we have been delighted with the efficient, regular engagement and communication demonstrated throughout the entire process.
“The liaison has been excellent and SSE’s team has gone the extra mile in responding to local questions and concerns. The turbine deliveries have gone much smoother than anticipated and we look forward to Gordonbush being fully up and running next year.”
Once completed, SSE say Gordonbush will be capable of generating enough renewable energy to power around 70,000 homes and will help contribute towards meeting Scotland’s renewable energy targets.