UK pension manager Railpen and Scottish renewable energy firm GreenPower have established a joint venture to co-develop the 66 MW Barachander onshore wind project in North Argyll. This initiative extends their existing partnership, under which they co-own the 46 MW operational Carraig Gheal Wind Farm.
The Barachander project, considered a “sister” to the Carraig Gheal wind farm, is currently in the pre-planning consultation phase. A planning application is expected to be submitted later this year.
Rob Forrest, CEO of GreenPower, highlighted the strength of the partnership, stating, “Our partnership with Railpen is a very positive one, and it is brilliant that our own independent Scottish company and the country's railway workers can combine our resources in this way, to not just create new green energy, but to make a difference to people locally and nationally.” He added that Barachander is proposed in a “good location for a relatively modest number of turbines with good energy yield” and will contribute to the Argyll Hydrogen Hub, a regional initiative for clean renewable energy.
Tim Grimstone, investment manager at Railpen, expressed enthusiasm for the expanded collaboration, noting that Barachander presents an “attractive opportunity to participate in the development of a significant onshore wind project, adding to our existing portfolio of renewable energy assets in the UK.” Grimstone emphasized Railpen's commitment to long-term returns and positive environmental impact, aligning with the UK Government's push to accelerate wind development and Railpen's goal of achieving Net Zero across its investment portfolio by 2050.
The Barachander wind farm will be situated in an upland area adjacent to an existing hydroelectric scheme and a commercial forestry plantation. The project plans to install between nine and 11 turbines, each up to 180 meters tall, which are described as mid-range modern standard efficient turbines.
The development is expected to comply with Scottish Government guidance, providing the equivalent of £5,000 per MW of installed generating capacity annually into a community benefit fund. This could potentially result in over £300,000 per year being invested in community priorities and projects.
Access to the Barachander site will utilize the 34 km timber haul access road built by GreenPower for the Carraig Gheal project, minimizing heavy traffic on public roads and supporting the delivery of turbines and other major components.
