Fife’s first commercial windfarm could almost double in size.
Kennedy Renewables is taking the first, tentative steps towards increasing the number of turbines at Little Raith farm, near Cowdenbeath.
The site, adjoining Mossmorran petrochemical plant, is home to nine, towering turbines.
It became fully operational a year ago and has a maximum output of nearly 25 MW. However, the company has lodged an environmental impact scoping opinion with Fife Council for a proposed multi-million-pound expansion, which could establish a further seven turbines on the site.
Three could lie between the existing turbines and the A909. A further three would skirt closer to the A92, between Cowdenbeath and Lochgelly, and the final one would be situated nearer to Auchtertool.
The scoping opinion is the first stage in engaging with Fife Council on its plans. The company has also been out this week talking to communities surrounding the site about its plans.
The proposal to extend the windfarm is in the preliminary stages of development, with public exhibitions due to start early next year.
Initial survey work for the proposed extension is being carried out to help establish the most suitable locations and design.
The firm’s managing director, Jonny Kennedy, said the size and dimensions of the additional turbines will be similar, if not the same, as those at Little Raith to ensure it appears as one, uniform development.
“We hope the proposed extension will allow us to expand on our current work and relationship with the local community,” he said.
“If an extension is approved, we will be in a position to add to community benefit payments for the already-operational scheme, which currently will provide £1.23 million over the next 25 years, as well as building on our relationship with Fife College, where we have a sponsorship agreement to provide financial support for less well-off students.”