A proposal to extend the Lethans wind farm, with the potential to power over 80,000 homes, has received official approval.
Community Engagement and Turbine Additions
Incorporating feedback from community consultations, OnPath Energy (formerly known as Banks Renewables) will install an additional 10 turbines at the site, notably without any public objections.
These new turbines, reaching up to 251 meters in height and 170 meters in diameter, will be the tallest onshore wind turbines ever approved in the UK.
They will join the existing 22 turbines at the Lethans site, which currently has a capacity of around 132 MW.
Boosting Renewable Energy Capacity and Efficiency
Located near New Cumnock in East Ayrshire, the site extension will optimize the wind farm’s efficiency in supplying low-cost, low-carbon electricity to energy consumers.
The extension, with a rated capacity of approximately 60 MW, comprises 10 high-powered turbines. It is estimated to displace around 45,000 tonnes per year of CO2 emissions, equivalent to taking 22,000 petrol cars off the roads.
Environmental, Social, and Economic Benefits
Robin Winstanley, Sustainability and Environment Director at OnPath Energy, expressed enthusiasm about the approval, stating, “With sustainability and climate change being such pressing, global issues, we are thrilled that our Lethans wind farm extension application has been approved.”
He highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the expansion, saying, “The additional turbines will bring a wealth of environmental, social, and economic benefits to the local community, including a £9 million community fund to be distributed to local initiatives.”
He further emphasized the company’s commitment to renewable technologies and their lower environmental impact compared to conventional energy sources.
Significant Economic Impact
The local economy is set to benefit greatly from this additional investment. An estimated £178 million (around 60% of the total expenditure) is projected to be spent within 60 km of the site.
This estimate is based on the average projected local spend across three OnPath wind farms, with independent consultant Biggar Economics calculating the lifetime economic impact of OnPath’s wind farm developments.
Moreover, the Lethans extension is expected to generate 400 jobs during the construction phase, with the project indirectly supporting even more through its broader supply chain.
Community-Centric Approach
Winstanley emphasized the importance of community involvement throughout the planning process. “When designing the wind farm extension, it was crucial for us to prioritize the community, and that’s why we involved them every step of the way,” he said.
He also acknowledged the ongoing fight against climate change and expressed OnPath Energy’s dedication to developing renewable energy projects to help achieve the country’s net-zero targets.
Another Success for OnPath Energy
This wind farm extension marks another accomplishment for OnPath Energy, following the initial approval of the Lethans wind farm in 2020 and the Mill Rig wind farm in late 2023.