The Welsh Government has granted planning permission to Bute Energy for the 92MW Twyn Hywel wind project, located near Caerphilly and Pontypridd. This development, featuring 14 wind turbines, marks the beginning of Bute Energy's ambitious renewable energy strategy, which includes a portfolio of 16 wind projects across Wales. Construction on Twyn Hywel is set to begin early next year, with completion anticipated in 2027.
Bute Energy's entire portfolio represents a £3 billion investment in Welsh renewable energy infrastructure. If all projects receive approval, they will contribute significantly to UK and Welsh clean energy targets, supplying around 15% of the UK's required capacity to meet its onshore wind doubling goal by 2030 and generating 25% of the electricity needed for Wales to achieve 100% renewable power by 2035.
To ensure local communities benefit directly from Twyn Hywel, Bute Energy has established the Twyn Hywel Community Benefit Fund, pledging more than £30 million over the 40-year life of the project. This commitment will provide approximately £693,000 annually, with allocation decisions guided by community representatives. Additionally, Bute Energy's Social Value Commitment promises to align contractor expertise with local organizations to further support economic growth, job creation, and skills development in Caerphilly and Pontypridd.
Stuart George, Managing Director of Bute Energy, emphasized the project's significance, noting that Twyn Hywel will contribute to net-zero goals while creating economic opportunities and a long-term legacy for the region.
