SCOTRAIL has been granted planning permission for two wind turbines to provide power at a railway depot for the first time.

The 5kw turbines will be up and running at Bathgate depot in West Lothian by early August.

It is the first time wind turbines have been installed at a main ScotRail depot, but Montrose station already has one.

The project will save almost eight tonnes of CO2 per year and produce 14,000 kwh of electricity – enough to power a station.

The turbines will be sensitively sited away from homes on the south side of the depot, in the car park area, ScotRail said.

It is estimated they will save the rail operator about £4500 every year through reduced energy bills.

ScotRail managing director Steve Montgomery said: "We are pleased to receive planning approval for these two turbines, which will have a positive impact on the environment."

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "I am encouraged ScotRail is continuing to install renewable energy across its estate."