OnPath Energy has submitted a scoping report for a new wind farm planned for a site northeast of New Cumnock, Scotland, on the location of a former coal mine. The proposed project, which will be named in collaboration with local schools and community groups, aims to contribute to the area’s transition from coal to renewable energy.
The site, formerly part of Banks Group and used for coal mining since 1976, has since been restored and is located on the Garleffan and Grievehill open-cast coal mine. OnPath Energy emphasized its commitment to working closely with the community, understanding the significant role of renewable energy in the region’s transition away from its coal mining history.
The proposed wind farm, which could feature up to eight turbines with a maximum tip height of 250 meters, is expected to generate up to 161.5GWh of electricity annually—enough to power approximately 55,000 homes. Additionally, OnPath plans to provide up to £5,000 per MW annually in community funding to support local initiatives.
Ewan Robertson, project manager for the wind farm proposal, stated: “This project has the potential to deliver lasting benefits for the local community throughout its operational lifespan which will enhance the overall package of benefits we are committed to delivering from our already consented projects at Lethans and Lethans Extension. Our goal is to go beyond simply building a wind farm, we want to create a project that recognises the rich mining history of the local area and plays a part in the lands transition to being a provider of clean energy.”
Robertson added: “To effectively accomplish this, we are actively engaging with local stakeholders to listen to community views, and how we can translate the feedback into making this project a valuable local asset. As we look ahead, our priority is to continue this dialogue and speak with as many people as possible, incorporating both concerns and positive feedback into our proposals before submitting a planning application.”
In line with its commitment to shared community ownership, OnPath will offer 1% free equity to local communities, along with the option for additional shares at market value. Two rounds of public consultations are planned to allow local residents to shape the project’s design and community benefits. The first round will begin on April 22, 2025, in New Cumnock, followed by sessions in Lugar and Logan, and concluding in Netherthird on April 24. A second round of consultations is scheduled for October 2025 to present the refined proposal based on community feedback.
