SSE’s Bhlaraidh windfarm granted planning consent

Planning permission for SSE’s Bhlaraidh windfarm has been granted by Scottish ministers.

The proposed 108MW, 32 turbine windfarm, will be located on the Glenmoriston Estate to the north west of Invermoriston, in the Great Glen.

Colin Nicol, director of onshore renewables, said: “During this period, SSE will be engaging with local people.

“We hope to continue the strong community relationships formed historically in Glenmoriston as a result of our hydro power generation, and through the wind farm proposal in more recent years.”

SSE aims to work with local businesses, with up to an estimated £74 million going to Highland and Scottish Companies.

The project is expected to create “significant local employment opportunities”, while up to £13 million will be provided to community investment funds over the next 25 years.

Nicol added: “This contribution to the local economy cannot be under-valued and we are particularly pleased to be investing in an area like Glenmoriston where our relationship as a company with the local community is long established”.

Scottish energy minister Fergus Ewing said: “Wind farms like this provide considerable benefits to their local community, and play an important part in helping Scotland reach its target of the equivalent of 100 per cent of electricity demand generated from renewables.”