As Western Europe’s largest onshore windfarm, with 152 consented turbines and a maximum generating capacity of up to 456 megawatts (MW), Clyde will make a significant contribution to Scotland’s target to provide 50% of Scotland’s electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020 to help combat climate change.

LUC worked closely with the windfarm developer, Airtricity, to design a layout appropriate for the surrounding landscape, which also sought to maximise energy yield whilst minimising significant environmental impacts.  The findings of the environmental survey and assessment work, managed by LUC, were compiled into an Environmental Statement to assist Scottish Ministers in determining the application for consent.  LUC’s digital design team supported the Project through the extensive and creative use of GIS and visualisation techniques and graphics skills.

A Public Local Inquiry into the windfarm proposal was held in 2006, with LUC co-ordinating the supporting evidence and providing a number of expert witnesses.  The Inquiry Report highlighted the quality of the Environmental Statement, which was also awarded a grade A for objectivity when reviewed by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.

Consent for Clyde was granted in 2008 and LUC continues to assist Airtricity in the implementation stages.  The windfarm development includes extensive habitat management and enhancement proposals which over time will increase the ecological diversity and value of the site.  LUC is involved in the preparation and implementation of these proposals and will also be acting as Ecological Clerk of Works during the three year construction programme for the windfarm.

Opinions on wind energy will always be divided, particularly when it comes to appropriate locations for the onshore windfarms required to meet ambitious Government targets for renewable energy.  LUC’s aim has always been to provide robust and objective design and environmental advice to inform the complex decision-making process. 

LUC continues to be proud of our involvement in Clyde windfarm, which was supported by the Client on the granting of consent:
"Airtricity is delighted to have been granted consent for Clyde Windfarm and acknowledges fully the key role that LUC played through the provision of design and environmental advice that was widely recognised by advisors to the Scottish Government to be robust, objective and of high quality."