Galileo Empower, the developer behind the Dorenell Wind Farm extension project in Scotland, has initiated a public consultation on how local residents should benefit from the project's electricity production. The wind farm extension is located in Cabrach, south of Dufftown, and local communities are being invited to share their views on how they should receive support toward their electricity bills once the project begins operations.
This consultation is part of a broader community benefit scheme that could provide up to £2.7 million annually for the local area. The feedback gathered will inform the final proposal, with the consultation running until the end of the year.
The original plan for the Dorenell extension includes 74 turbines and was presented to the public through exhibitions held in Dufftown, Cabrach, and Glenbuchat earlier this year. Galileo plans to return for further consultations with updated proposals in early 2025.
Jason Morin, Senior Project Manager at Galileo Empower, emphasized the project's commitment to benefiting the local community, stating, “We recognise that recent spikes in electricity prices have been especially difficult for local people, and we want to be good neighbours to local communities and ensure our support makes the biggest difference for those nearby.”
The Dorenell Extension Wind Farm project also includes a large-scale peatland restoration effort, marking it as one of the biggest of its kind in the country. The proposals are in the early stages, with a formal planning application expected in 2025 after additional public consultation.
