Promise of ‘economic benefits at a regional level’ as construction starts at Golticlay wind farm
Energy company RWE has pledged that its Golticlay wind farm in Caithness will create jobs locally and “deliver economic benefits at a regional level”.
The German-based developer confirmed that construction has begun on the 11-turbine wind farm northwest of Lybster which will have a total installed capacity of 62.7 megawatts.
Each turbine will be 180 metres to the blade tip and full power generation is expected by the end of 2026.
There could eventually be 22 turbines in the area as there are proposals for a separate Golticlay extension scheme of up to 11 turbines.
Residents and others who use the C1053 Achavanich route, linking Lybster on the A99 with the Causewaymire on the A9, had to put up with months of traffic restrictions from late 2024.
Road-widening work for Golticlay meant involved shutting off different sections at a time. RWE said this work is now complete and thanked residents for their patience.
Announcing the start of construction on the wind farm, Victoria Allen, RWE’s head of onshore development for Scotland, said: “This is an exciting moment. It is a project that underscores our commitment to Scotland’s renewable energy sector.
“Golticlay will not only generate clean, home-grown power but also deliver economic benefits at a regional level, boosting local businesses and creating jobs in the area.”
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Civil engineering contractor Farrans is responsible for managing the construction operations and says it is committed to working with local subcontractors. It is currently working with local contractor Alan Gow Groundworks, which expects to employ 25 people on site during its contracted works.
Patrick Murray, regional director at Farrans, said: “We are proud to be a part of the Golticlay project, which will bring transformative benefits to both the local economy and Scotland’s renewable energy goals.
“By partnering with regional businesses and engaging the local workforce, we aim to maximise the positive impact of this project across Caithness.”
The Nordex Group will manufacture the 11 turbines and supply them via Wick harbour.
Nicholas Smith, project manager for the UK and Ireland at Nordex Group, said: “Nordex is thrilled to be part of the Golticlay wind farm, which demonstrates the power of local collaboration in driving green energy solutions.
“Our work with Scottish businesses and use of the port of Wick ensures not only high-performance energy generation but also meaningful benefits for the community.”
Highland Council objected to the original Golticlay in 2017, saying it would have “a significantly detrimental visual impact on the Caithness landscape”. A public inquiry was held the following year.
The application was granted in 2021, having been dealt with by Scottish ministers. The decision letter acknowledged that ministers received 246 objections and three letters of support.
At that time it was to be a 19-turbine development.
In 2023, RWE submitted a variation to the consented development. Changes included a reduction in the number of turbines and an increase in the maximum tip height.
A spokesperson for RWE said: “Since receiving final consent in 2024 the team have been working hard to fully optimise the project to ensure a viable configuration of turbines. This work has led us to a final layout of 11 turbines that will be constructed.”
RWE said the neighbouring Golticlay extension is a standalone wind farm that is still in the development stage and not expected to be submitted into planning until later this year. It consists of “approximately 11 turbines”.
The spokesperson added: “In terms of our work on upgrading the C1053, we can confirm that work is now complete and RWE would like to extend a thank-you to all local residents and wider road users for their patience whilst we undertook this work.
“Any further work on the road will be to repair any potholes or other damage that may appear between now and completion of the project and to prepare for the turbine delivery expected in 2026. Any further information will be shared with the local community as and when it is confirmed.”
Golticlay joins RWE’s Enoch Hill (70MW), Camster II (36MW) and Strathy Wood (70MW) projects in construction in Scotland.