Statkraft has unveiled plans to redesign the Mossy Hill Wind Farm near Lerwick in Shetland, aiming to decrease the number of turbines by a third and mitigate the visual and environmental impact of the project. The revised proposal includes reducing the turbine count from 12 to eight and increasing the height of the remaining turbines from 145 meters to 155 meters. This adjustment would lower the installed capacity from approximately 48 MW to around 36 MW.
The redesigned scheme also incorporates enhancements to amenity provisions and outdoor access around the site. Statkraft plans to submit a new planning application reflecting these changes. The updated design will address feedback received during the Mossy Hill substation consultation events held earlier in 2024. Improvements include a safer rerouting of the National Cycle Network Route 1 to avoid the main A970 road, enhanced visitor access, additional information panels, outdoor seating, and nature observation areas.
Additionally, Statkraft intends to build a single-story office near the planned Mossy Hill substation. This office will serve as the base for Statkraft employees in Shetland and will include facilities for public use, such as interpretive displays of Statkraft's projects, public toilets during office hours, a water refill station, and parking. Electric charging points will also be installed to support both local residents and visitors.
The company will hold public exhibitions in August 2024 to present the revised scheme and gather feedback from the local community and stakeholders.
John Thouless, Statkraft's Principal Wind Project Manager, stated, “Mossy Hill Wind Farm was designed almost a decade ago, so it's right to look again to see if what was consented is still the best way to build the project. We have decided to reconfigure the design, and are putting forward improved plans, meaning the visual impact of the wind farm is reduced. I am looking forward to continuing our conversations with the local community and explaining more about our new proposals.”
