Bute Energy has unveiled plans for two significant wind farm projects in Powys, Wales, contributing to the Welsh Government’s goal of achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2035. The 192MW Welsh wind farms projects, Aberedw Energy Park and Bryn Gilwern Energy Park, were announced, triggering a six-week consultation period. Combined, the wind farms are set to feature up to 34 turbines, with maximum heights of 220 meters at Bryn Gilwern and 200 meters at Aberedw.
The proposed locations for these energy parks are near Builth Wells and Llandrindod Wells, strategically chosen to harness the wind potential in the region. The consultation period, running until December 20, includes public events in Builth, Penybont, and Llandrindod, aiming to gather community feedback on various aspects, including turbine locations, infrastructure, and access routes.
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James Nicol, Senior Project Manager at Bute Energy, emphasized the projects’ response to the climate emergency, reduction of fossil fuel reliance, and alignment with the Welsh Government’s renewable energy targets. The wind farms are expected to generate a combined capacity of 192MW, supplying clean energy to approximately 175,000 homes.
Furthermore, Bute Energy plans to establish two Community Benefit Funds, anticipating an annual investment of around £1.4 million in local communities. The company is committed to ensuring local involvement in the projects, with contracts awarded during development adhering to a Social Value Standard. This standard aims to create jobs benefiting local communities and directs resources toward the well-being of nearby areas.
The energy parks will connect to the electricity transmission network through the proposed Green GEN Cymru Towy Usk network, contributing to the development of a green energy infrastructure. Bute Energy expects to submit a planning application to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) in 2025, following thorough public consultation and consideration of feedback, along with environmental, technical, and ecological surveys.
The proposed Aberedw and Bryn Gilwern 192MW Welsh wind farms Energy Parks are classified as Developments of National Significance, requiring separate applications to PEDW, which will then make recommendations to Welsh Ministers for planning permission. Bute Energy’s proactive approach to community engagement and renewable energy development underscores its commitment to a sustainable future for Wales.
