OnPath Energy, formerly known as Banks Renewables, has officially inaugurated a 15-turbine extension at its Kype Muir Wind Farm in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, increasing the site's total capacity to over 155MW. The project was officially opened by Joani Reid, Labour MP for East Kilbride and Strathaven, who highlighted its significance for the local economy and Scotland's transition to net zero.
“I welcome the opportunity to open the Kype Muir Wind Farm Extension, it is another key building block towards a just transition to net zero as well as a boost to the local economy,” Reid said during the event. “It is also great to see pupils from Newfield Primary being part of the celebration and the naming of the turbines.”
The 15 new turbines join the existing 26-turbine Kype Muir Wind Farm, with the combined project expected to generate over £21 million in community benefits over its lifetime. OnPath Energy noted that the development will directly and indirectly support approximately 800 jobs, providing a substantial economic uplift to the region.
Gordon Thomson, projects director at OnPath Energy, described the opening as a “major milestone” for the company. “The site is going to deliver vast amounts of clean renewable energy, while financially benefiting local communities for generations through our Kype Muir Community Partnership,” he stated. Thomson also emphasized the project's role in supporting local employment, adding, “In addition to this, it has supported hundreds of jobs in the local area which represents a significant boost to the local economy.”
The original Kype Muir Wind Farm alone is estimated to contribute £123 million in regional spending over its lifetime, with a similar commitment to local businesses for the extension project, according to OnPath Energy.
