A wind farm that could power nearly 50,000 homes has been given the green light after an appeal.
The energy firm behind the plans said that “wherever reasonably practicable, local suppliers and contractors” will be used to help build the wind farm.
The plans for eight turbines at Craighead Wind Farm near Carnbo in Kinross-shire were approved after an appeal to the Scottish Government.
Galileo Empower said the wind farm “will contribute significantly to the decarbonisation of the electricity grid, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and deliver lasting economic benefits for the local community”.
Three of the turbines will have blade tip heights of up to 180 metres, and five will have blade tip heights of up to 200 metres.
It is estimated that throughout the construction and operational phase of the proposed development, up to £9.1 million is anticipated to be spent within the local economy across the construction and operational phases, with a total of £33.7m spent within the overall Scottish economy.
It is also expected up to 66 jobs will be created across Perth and Kinross, and an estimated £24m in business rates will be contributed to local services over the operational lifetime of the wind farm, the firm said.
There is also a community wealth fund of around £10m.
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Planning permission was granted following an appeal to the Scottish Government Reporter, following non-determination of the planning application by Perth and Kinross Council.
The project, with an operational lifetime of 40 years, will have a generating capacity of 49.6 megawatts.
Galileo said an ambitious Biodiversity Enhancement Management Plan will be implemented, delivering significant biodiversity enhancements.
Jason Morin, senior project manager for Galileo Empower, said: “We’re delighted that Craighead Wind Farm has been granted planning permission, delivering secure, clean, homegrown energy.
“This decision marks a significant step forward in Scotland’s renewable energy journey, and we’re committed to ensuring that local communities and businesses share directly in the economic opportunities this project will create.
“We have engaged extensively with local communities on this project and are keen to maintain that engagement as we deliver investment, generate local jobs, boost the skills of our current and future workforce and deliver sustainable economic growth.”
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