German energy company RWE has commenced public consultation on its proposal to construct a wind farm in north Wales, aiming to generate 60MW of renewable energy. The Alwen Forest Wind Farm project includes plans for up to nine turbines, reaching heights of 200 meters, alongside battery storage facilities and a habitat management plan.
The proposed wind farm, situated north of Alwen Reservoir near Llyn Brenig, spans both the Conwy County Borough and Denbighshire County Council areas. The project also encompasses the grid connection between Alwen and Clocaenog, intending to utilize existing infrastructure at RWE's operational Clocaenog Forest Wind Farm.
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The pre-application consultation period, running from December 13 for an extended eight weeks to accommodate the Christmas break, provides stakeholders an opportunity to review and provide feedback on the project. RWE will host in-person events in Nantglyn and Cerrigydrudion, supplementing online information with maps, photomontages, and the draft Environmental Statement.
Martin Cole, RWE project manager, highlighted the company's collaborative approach, stating, “We are now seeking final input from local people and statutory consultees and other interested stakeholders as part of the pre-application consultation, prior to final submission of the planning application to the Welsh Ministers, who will make a decision in due course.”
As part of its commitment to community engagement, RWE plans to establish the co-operative organization Ynni Hiraethog, allowing locals to hold a stake of up to 15% in the project and share in the generated revenues. Cole emphasized the economic benefits for local businesses and the establishment of a community fund. RWE's wind farm projects in Wales have contributed over £15 million to community funds.
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If granted consent, RWE anticipates site preparation and construction to commence in 2026, with the Alwen Forest Wind Farm targeted to be fully operational by 2028. Following the consultation period, RWE will assess feedback in preparation for the formal Development of National Significance planning application submission to Planning and Environment Decision Wales.
