Banks Renewables, an energy company, has recently filed a planning application for the Bodinglee wind farm, a 280MW renewable energy project in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The wind farm, comprising 37 turbines, will be accompanied by battery storage facilities to enhance energy efficiency.
Robin Winstanley, Sustainability and External Affairs Manager at Banks Renewables, emphasized the innovative approach of the Bodinglee wind farm, stating, “The blended benefits package which would result from Bodinglee wind farm is innovative in its approach, looking beyond the traditional model of issuing grants from a central pot, seeking to reshape how a just energy transition could directly benefit local households and the wider community.”
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Over its projected 40-year lifespan, the wind farm is expected to generate a blended community benefits package estimated at £53 million. This package is designed to assist local residents in saving an estimated £2.5 million to £4.5 million annually on their energy bills. The benefits will be facilitated through the establishment of a community-owned organization called Clydesdale Community Energy Transition Company (CCETco). CCETco will focus on enhancing the thermal efficiency of homes in the area and replacing outdated fossil fuel-based heating systems.
To ensure the success of these initiatives, Banks Renewables commissioned an independent study conducted by Natural Power, a consultancy firm. The study revealed that by funding energy-saving measures, such as improving home insulation, the annual energy bill savings for approximately 6,500 local households could range from £2 million to £4.4 million.
In addition to the creation of CCETco, Banks Renewables has made a generous offer to gift a 1% stake in the wind farm to the local community. Furthermore, an additional 9% stake will be available for purchase at market rate, potentially surpassing the £53 million figure and bolstering the community funding element.
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Winstanley further expressed the company's vision for the Bodinglee wind farm, stating, “Our vision for the site is not just to create a wind farm, but for Bodinglee to deliver sustainable, positive, and transformative change for South Lanarkshire.” Since the commencement of the project in 2021, Banks Renewables has actively engaged with local communities, businesses, and stakeholders to ensure that the wind farm exceeds expectations and contributes significantly to South Lanarkshire's journey toward net zero emissions.
The planning application for the Bodinglee wind farm represents a significant step toward Scotland's renewable energy targets. With its sustainable features and focus on benefiting the local community, the project aligns with the nation's commitment to transitioning to a greener future.
