Caithness gets a chance to see which way the wind blows
The public will have a chance to talk about these issues when Halkirk turbine owners W.P. & E. Watson open their doors to all who want to see a small wind turbine in action.
The open day is on September 7 and small wind turbine experts from the manufacturer Gaia-Wind, and the owner, will be on hand to answer any questions.
Gaia-Wind chief executive Johnnie Andringa said: “The small wind sector is catching the breeze from the nationwide debate about siting of large-scale onshore wind projects.”
“The heat – if not very much light – generated by the extreme language and high emotions in this debate only makes it more difficult for people in the rural economy who wish to be part of the renewables revolution.
“We want to give straightforward information so that people can make up their own minds about agricultural-level turbines.”
Mr Andringa explained that small wind turbines, such as the Gaia-Wind 113m are designed to support farms, larger houses and other businesses. They are “relatively unobtrusive” and can provide the sometimes vital feed in tariff funds which can make the difference between being viable or not for thousands of farmers.
The open day will take place at Harpsdale Mains, Halkirk, between 9am and 1pm. Attendance can be arranged by calling Ian Hardie on 07875 961790 or go to www.Gaia-Wind.com