Biodiversity and benefits focus as proposals for Quantans Hill Wind Farm are submitted to planning

Vattenfall has today submitted to planning proposals for a 14 turbine wind farm and battery storage scheme near Carsphairn in Dumfries and Galloway.

If consented, Quantans Hill Wind Farm could increase Scotland’s renewable energy capacity by around 90MW – enough to power 80,000 homes - with up to £16million-worth of community benefit funding for the local area. Its 50MW battery storage scheme will also boost grid stability and energy security.

The company has undertaken a two-year community engagement process, and extensive environmental assessments, which have helped mould the proposed design for Quantans Hill Wind Farm. The proposal will provide significant biodiversity improvements including peatland restoration, planting of native broadleaf trees and extensive plans to improve the habitats of local wildlife such as black grouse.

Quantans Hill will also create opportunities for jobs, businesses and community benefits for the local area. This builds on Vattenfall’s approach at South Kyle Wind Farm, the under-construction project north of Carsphairn which has, according to independent analysis, supported 270 jobs in south west Scotland, and seen an estimated £44million worth of business awarded to companies based in the south west¹.

The proposed wind farm could also enable the protection of a site of significant historic interest – the crash site of a World War 2 aircraft believed to be carrying an early radar prototype – with accessible tracks installed to enable visitors to explore the hillside.

Matt Bacon, Project Manager for the Quantans Hill Onshore Wind Farm, said: “Renewable power helps make Scotland less reliant on fossil fuels, which are at risk of huge price shocks due to international events beyond the control of people here in Dumfries and Galloway. But we also know that wind farms can really boost communities and regional economies, which is why our proposal for Quantans Hill Wind Farm has been designed to benefit wildlife and nature, and create opportunities for local businesses and jobs.”