Scottish Power Renewables operations managing director Kenny Peberdy said: “Onshore wind is the most cost effective and viable renewable energy source in the UK and it is vital that we continue to invest in good projects.
“The importance of windfarms like this should not be underestimated, and I am delighted that Coal Clough will remain a key part of our company’s operations for many years to come.”
This comes after the Tories confirmed their plans to “halt the spread” of onshore wind projects by scrapping all new subsidies to the project in their manifesto, which was released mid-April.
Scottish Power Reneables has invested £22.5 million repowering the Coal Clough windfarm near Burnley, replacing the original turbines which were constructed in 1992.
It had an original capacity of 9.6MW from 24 turbines, but it now has a capacity of 16MW coming from eight turbines.
Peberdy added: “Coal Clough was at the forefront of the green energy revolution in the UK when it first came on line in the early 90s, and our recent investment ensures that this area will continue to play a role in providing clean electricity for the national grid for decades to come.”
Data from the original site shows in generated more than 400,000MWh of electricity during its 21 years operational life. The newly installed turbines are expected to be operational for 25 years.