The wind energy industry in Orkney has already demonstrated an ability to generate significant social and economic benefits for the Islands. The existence of the extraordinary community of expertise in Renewable Technologies, now based in Stromness, can be traced back to the first developments on Burgar Hill in the 1980’s.
In addition to the creation of an intellectual resource, many valuable jobs have been directly created and sustained in Electrical, Mechanical & Civil Engineering, Project Design, and Environmental Consultancy. Orkney contractors, suppliers, and service providers have all had the opportunity to participate in these developments, and Orkney has benefited widely from the economic activity thus generated.
HHWEP is a privately funded local windfarm of five 900 kW wind turbines, providing significant financial returns to all members of the Orkney community wishing to participate; there are no restrictions to involvement in the project. This project complements the grant-supported community wind turbines proposed for the outer isles, and provides a direct income stream for participants.
The project represents an opportunity to make a significant and efficient contribution to the Energy Security of Orkney, in an age when this is a real issue. Hammars Hill Energy Ltd is a locally based and locally owned company, committed to the wide distribution of the project’s financial benefits within the Orkney Community. The Applicant and the Developers take an imaginative view of the tourist and educational potential of the site, and are committed to maximising its amenity value to the local community.
Construction of the project began in the summer of 2009, with the roads and hardstandings completed by the end of the year. The turbines have been ordered and the project is due to be commissioned in the Autumn of 2010.
