Statkraft unveils revised plans for Mossy Hill Wind Farm: Turbine reduction and community enhancements

Statkraft, Europe’s largest producer of renewable energy, has announced a major redesign of its Mossy Hill Wind Farm project near Lerwick in Shetland. The revised plans include a significant reduction in the number of turbines, decreasing them by a third from twelve to eight. This move is expected to reduce both the visual and environmental impacts of the development. Additionally, Statkraft is proposing substantial improvements to community amenities and outdoor access around the project site.

Originally consented by Shetland Islands Council in 2019, the Mossy Hill Wind Farm was acquired by Statkraft in 2023. The initial plan featured up to twelve turbines with a total installed capacity of around 48 megawatts (MW). The redesigned scheme will reduce the number of turbines to eight and slightly increase their tip height from 145 metres to 155 metres. These adjustments will be made in areas further from the main road, thus minimizing their visual impact. The total installed capacity of the wind farm is now projected to be about 36 MW.

The redesign aims to address concerns regarding the visual footprint of the wind farm, particularly along the prominent A970 road that connects Lerwick and Scalloway. By concentrating the turbines away from major roadways and increasing their height slightly, Statkraft seeks to balance efficiency with reduced visibility from key vantage points. This redesign reflects the feedback received from community consultations held earlier in 2024.

In addition to modifying the turbine layout, Statkraft is planning a range of community-focused enhancements. The project will include a safer re-routing of the National Cycle Network Route 1 to avoid the A970 road, improving safety for cyclists and pedestrians. Other planned improvements include better access for visitors, more site information panels, outdoor seating, and nature observation areas. These upgrades are designed to enrich the visitor experience and encourage engagement with the wind farm and its surroundings.

Statkraft is also proposing the construction of a new single-story office building near the Mossy Hill substation. This office will serve as a base for Statkraft employees and will feature an interpretive area showcasing the company’s projects in Shetland. Additional visitor facilities will include public toilets, a water refill station, and electric vehicle charging points, addressing local needs and promoting sustainable practices.

To provide more details about the revised plans and gather community feedback, Statkraft will hold a series of public exhibitions in August 2024. These sessions will allow local residents and stakeholders to engage with the project team, ask questions, and discuss the proposed changes.

John Thouless, Principal Wind Project Manager at Statkraft, commented that the redesign represents a thoughtful reassessment of the project’s original design. “Mossy Hill Wind Farm was designed almost a decade ago, so it’s right to look again to see if what was consented is still the best way to build the project. We’ve decided to reconfigure the design, and are putting forward improved plans, meaning the visual impact of the wind farm is reduced.”

Tracey Leslie, Assistant Shetland Project Manager, highlighted the community benefits of the revised plans. “The significant benefits we’re proposing have been driven by what Shetlanders value. This would see us enhancing access and cycling routes, particularly for people with mobility issues, allowing everyone to experience and enjoy a viewpoint of Shetland from the elevated position of our wind farm.”

In summary, Statkraft’s revised plans for the Mossy Hill Wind Farm focus on reducing the number of turbines and enhancing community amenities. The updated design aims to decrease the visual impact of the wind farm while improving local access and facilities. Statkraft is committed to engaging with the local community and integrating their feedback into the project’s development.