SSE Renewables, the renewable energy development division of SSE, has received consent from North Ayrshire Council to construct an offshore wind turbine test facility at Hunterston in North Ayrshire.
The facility will be Scotland’s first offshore wind turbine test site and will be an extension of SSE’s Glasgow-based Centre of Engineering Excellence for Renewable Energy (CEERE). In partnership with leading turbine suppliers, up to three prototype turbines will be tested at the site for a period of five years.
Managing Director of SSE Renewables, Jim Smith , said: “We are delighted with the decision by North Ayrshire Council; this project will represent an important project for the wider offshore wind industry, by providing a test facility it will allow manufacturers to demonstrate the reliability of the next generation of longer capacity turbines ahead of deployment offshore.
“Work to address the conditions associated with the consent will now take place. During this time we will be engaging with communities ahead of the construction phase when we hope to build on the good community relations we have established.”
The planning consent is the culmination of significant consultation and engagement with local residents, community organisations, elected representatives and government agencies.
Enabling works are due to begin in the spring with the main construction period commencing late 2012 and a planned project achievement date of early 2013.
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Offshore WIND staff, February 15, 2012