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New energy
developments approved
Ministers today approved two renewable energy
developments in Argyll and the Highlands.
 Ministers
today approved two renewable energy developments in Argyll and the
Highlands.
The Douglas Water hydro electric generating station near Inveraray will
generate enough energy to meet the electricity needs of approximately 2,000
homes.
Causeymire Wind Farm in the Highlands will be extended to supply electricity
to around 33,000 households every year.
Deputy Enterprise Minister Allan Wilson said:
"This is excellent news for the development of renewable energy in Scotland.
The Executive is committed to tackling climate change and we have set a
target that at least 40 per cent of Scottish electricity is generated from a
variety of renewable sources by 2020.
"Today's approved projects are further evidence that we are on the right
track to achieving this. Hydro electric power is already making a
significant contribution to reducing the harmful emissions causing global
warming and Douglas Water will ensure that even more of our electricity
comes from this cleaner source.
"The extension of the Causeymire is also good news for our renewable sector
and once completed will significantly increase the potential generating
capacity of the site.
"These projects will not only deliver clear environmental benefits, but are
also a step towards securing Scotland's position as a world leader in the
renewable energy technology sector."
Kevin McCullough, Managing Director for Npower Renewables, the developers of
both projects, said:
"We are delighted by this news. Not only does this add a further 9.9
megawatts of renewable energy to our portfolio but it emphasises our
commitment to developing, and operating, a range of renewable energy
technologies across Scotland.
"This commitment is underpinned by npower renewables position as the UK's
leading wind farm developer along with our powerful heritage in
hydro-electricity which dates back some 100 years. Furthermore, we are
actively supporting the development of marine power through the npower juice
fund and are involved through our parent company with co-firing biomass
projects.
"We are hoping to progress the two schemes as soon as possible to have them
operational by 2008. A big congratulations to all involved."
The Scottish Climate Change Programme sets out the Executives contribution
to the UK Climate Change objectives. A key measure is the commitment that 18
per cent of electricity generated in Scotland should come from Renewables by
2010.
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