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Peel Energy is exploring the possibility of expanding Scout Moor Wind Farm. Detailed studies are underway to consider the potential to install more wind turbines within the existing wind farm area and in locations to the north and east of the existing turbines.
Early studies have shown that there is sufficient land available to more than double the output of the wind farm. Further technical studies are underway to inform discussions with statutory consultees (such as Natural England), interest groups, and local communities. These discussions will allow us to better understand the potential issues related to extending the wind farm and prepare firm proposals for the development.
If a wind farm extension were to take place, a substantial community benefit fund would be set up that could be accessed by the community to finance local projects and good causes. A co-operative ownership scheme is also being considered that would offer members of the local community the opportunity to gain a stake and a return on investment in the wind farm.
The government is also currently consulting on proposals to retain the rates (rateable taxes) from renewable energy schemes within the budgets of the local councils where they reside.
An expansion to the wind farm also offers opportunities to improve areas of heavily degraded peat moor as well as protecting and enhancing wildlife habitat areas and water quality sources on Scout Moor through new funding schemes similar to the existing Habitat Enhancement Plan fund.
The application for development consent will ultimately be submitted to the Infrastructure Planning Commission, or its successor, the Major Infrastructure Planning Unit, for determination. Following a detailed programme of community consultation, the application could be ready for submission within 18 months.
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