Proposed energy project in north-east Caithness will have mix of wind and solar power
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Plans have been drawn up for a renewable energy project in north-east Caithness that will feature solar arrays as well as wind turbines.
The application for the 80 megawatt Hollandmey development, on a site to the south of Mey, has been submitted to the Scottish Government's Energy Consents Unit by ScottishPower Renewables.
If approved, it will consist of 10 wind turbines with a blade-tip height of 149.9 metres and with a generating capacity of around 50 MW. There will also be around 15 MW of ground-mounted solar arrays and approximately 15 MW of battery energy storage.
Onshore developments above 50 megawatts are determined by Scottish ministers under Section 36 of the Electricity Act.
ScottishPower Renewables says the scheme will repay the carbon emissions relating to its construction in just over three years, and this will be further reduced by the solar array.
The battery energy storage system will provide stability to the electricity supply network and bring improved energy security.
The company says a dedicated community benefit fund will be established in conjunction with local communities, and also points to "financial support for the local electric vehicle charging network".
Proposed environmental measures include felling of commercial forestry and restoration of 168 hectares of peatland landscape, providing habitat for wader species surrounding the Phillips Mains Mire Site of Special Scientific Interest.
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