Dealing with Energy Issues
The need for more renewable energy sources is greater than ever. Rising power prices, fears over security of supply and climate change have put the issue of energy high in everyone’s mind. Maximising power output from existing and new wind energy sites will be key in tackling these issues. Existing wind farms are being repowered and new sites developed using improved technology and higher capacity turbine models. Higher capacity wind turbines are taller in order to catch a greater wind resource and produce significantly more electricity. Around the world, turbines of 200m and higher are becoming commonplace. Turbine manufacturers are following this global market trend and removing the smaller turbine models (<150 m) from their production lines.
The candidate wind turbine models for Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension will have a generating capacity of up to 6.6 megawatts (MW) each, more than three times the capacity of the turbines installed at the existing Clashindarroch Wind Farm. On 18 December 2025, the Scottish Government approved the project with 21 wind turbines, instead of the proposed 22: one was removed due to potential impact on peat. In combination with the 50MW energy storage array, the project as consented will deliver up to 188.6MW of renewable energy generation and storage: a meaningful contribution towards Scottish renewable energy targets.
Community
Construction jobs
Wind energy developments provide job opportunities for Scottish businesses. Comprising 21 wind turbines and a 50MW battery energy storage facility, the investment for the Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension project will be significant, creating a potential boost for the local economy.
Community Benefit Fund
At the heart of Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension is a commitment to the local community. Based on the up to 6.6MW installed capacity per wind turbine, Boralex has developed a comprehensive community fund, comprising up to £693,000 per year over the life of the project, expected to be 40 years, totalling over £29m (index-linked).
It is the intention that part of this money will be allocated to the following initiatives:
- Direct energy bill support of £1,849 annually and a one-off lump sum of up to £20,000 for home energy efficiency improvements for households within 5km of the turbines.
- A £45,000-per-year Scholarship Fund, offering 15 scholarships in STEM and construction skills for students from Moray.
The remainder of the Community Benefit Fund is to provide funding for local projects and initiatives, to be discussed with the local community. An up to £138,000-per-year Socio-Economic Fund will also be provided, based on the up to 6.6MW-per-wind turbine installed capacity, administered by Moray Council, for supply chain development, business support and community wealth building. This package reflects Boralex’s belief that renewable energy projects should deliver more than electricity alone – they should empower communities, create opportunities and leave a positive legacy for generations to come.