The 96-turbine Kilgallioch windfarm, which could meet the average electricity demand of 170,000 homes, will become the energy company’s second largest onshore wind project behind its 539MW Whitelee windfarm.
Consent was granted with conditions in place to protect the environment. The initial application for the site was for 132 turbines but this was subsequently reduced to mitigate the impact it would have on its surroundings.
Scottish Power Renewables is also required to pay in to a fund to support local environmental and energy-related projects.
Keith Anderson the company’s chief executive, said: “Kilgallioch is a very significant renewable energy project that will make a major contribution towards both Scotland’s and the UK’s carbon reduction targets. It represents a major investment in new electricity generation in Scotland and will sustain hundreds of jobs during construction, helping to boost the local and regional economy in South West Scotland.”
“Prior to construction work starting, we will look to engage with local businesses and suppliers, to see how we can get them involved in the project.”
Work is scheduled in late 2014 or early 2015 and is expected to take 24 months to complete.