21st January, 2010
Forestry Commission Scotland has today announced details of a new phase of forestry sites to be explored for wind energy potential.
The four sites, located in the Borders and central belt, are part of an overall Scottish Government drive to generate clean and renewable energy and reduce the effects of climate change.
The sites include two areas within the central belt – Heathland Forest and Carron Valley Forest; and two sites within the Borders – Wauchope Forest, and Cloich Forest.
In October 2009, the Commission split the national forest estate into six separate regions with the intention of appointing commercial partners to help it investigate and deliver wind energy projects. Partnerships for Renewables were appointed to cover the Borders and central belt area and will be working with the Commission to explore these chosen sites.
Suilven Weatherhead of the Commission’s Renewable Energy Business Unit said:
“To help the Scottish Government achieve its renewable energy targets, we are investigating the full wind energy potential of the estate over the coming years. Establishing a site’s suitability is a long and detailed process and we will be working with commercial partners to help us deliver this programme of work across Scotland.
“In the Borders and central belt, we are working with Partnerships for Renewables which was established by the Carbon Trust to work with the public sector to develop renewable energy projects. They share our commitment to only developing sites in appropriate locations and work with the local community throughout the development process.”
Alan Mathewson, from Partnerships for Renewables, said: “By reviewing the wind energy potential of Scotland’s forests, the Commission will be able to develop a wider strategic view of how it can most appropriately deliver wind energy across it’s estate. We are delighted to be playing a key part in this programme and will ensure that local communities are kept informed throughout our work, which could see some projects commissioned in approximately four years time.”
The four sites were chosen after extensive desk research and now more thorough studies will be undertaken by Partnerships for Renewables to explore the viability of these sites. Over the next two years, a further scoping report will be produced and masts will be located for monitoring wind energy potential. Full environmental studies will also be carried out and statutory and environmental bodies will be consulted before any decisions are taken on whether the location is suitable.
Community phoneline: 0800 019 3517
Contacts
Media enquiries to Steve Williams, Forestry Commission Scotland 0131 314 6508 or 07771 730 509. For Partnerships for Renewables, contact Tom Brinicombe on 0207 832 4672 or 0781 416 9380.