by Sam McMillan of ESB
ESB has submitted revised plans for the consented Craigneil Wind Farm, located approximately 6.5km to the north west of Stonehaven.
Craigneil Wind Farm received consent in September 2022 for 11 turbines at 135m in height. The site is an open moorland and currently used for low intensity grazing, which can continue during operations of the wind farm.
The project was first submitted into planning in early Summer 2018 and took over four years to achieve planning consent. Since the original application submission, technology and commercial viability considerations have resulted in ESB submitting a redesigned wind farm of seven turbines up to 180m to blade tip.
The updated design has resulted in fewer – and larger – turbines. It is estimated that the redesign proposals would generate the electricity equivalent demand of almost 25,000 Scottish homes each year – an increase from the consented Craigneil Wind Farm project and maximises the site’s renewable energy contribution.
The increase in renewable energy output also results in an increase in community benefit funds to the local area – based on a 42MW proposal, it would mean a Community Benefit Fund of £210,000 every year (index linked) for the local area. ESB is also committed to Craigneil Wind Farm being a community shared ownership wind farm, providing the opportunity to the community to invest and have a share in the development. ESB has supported the Feein’ Market from 2022 – 2026 and has also supported the Fireballs and Stonehaven Christmas Lights in previous years.
The application documents can be accessed online at Aberdeenshire Council’s planning portal website under the application reference: APP/2026/0965 and more information on the application can be found on the project website at: www.esbenergy.co.uk/craigneil-wind-farm
ESB held consultation events at Mackie Academy and the former Courthouse Building in Stonehaven in June 2024 and September 2024 on the updated design.
ESB, established in 1927, is Ireland’s part state owned electricity utility company and is a leading independent power generator in the UK. ESB has offices in Glasgow and is heavily involved in onshore wind, offshore wind, electric vehicle infrastructure and renewable heating systems, such as the low-carbon heating and cooling system installed in the V&A Dundee.
ESB’s Emma Shearer said:
“We have brought forward updated plans for the consented Craigneil Wind Farm and we would like to put on record our thanks to residents and community representatives for their input and time over the years on Craigneil Wind Farm. The new plans will maximise the renewable energy that can be produced on site as well as see an increase in community benefit funds for the local area.
“We are committed to working with local companies to deliver our wind farm project and, if the redesign is consented, we will work with local businesses and the supply chain for Craigneil Wind Farm.”
Featured image – Craigneil would be a neighbour to Meikle Carewe Wind Farm, which is pictured.