The Neart na Gaoithe (NnG), located 15.5 kilometers off the coast of Fife, the offshore wind farm is now fully operational, marking a significant step forward for Scotland’s renewable energy ambitions. Jointly owned by EDF Renewables UK & Ireland and ESB, the facility features 54 Siemens Gamesa 8 MW turbines capable of generating up to 450 megawatts of electricity. This is enough to power around 375,000 homes while offsetting more than 400,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. Although the wind farm delivered its first power in October 2024, final commissioning is set for summer 2025, as system upgrades and turbine optimizations continue.
Strengthening Scotland’s Economy and Supply Chains
In addition to its environmental impact, the NnG project is delivering substantial economic benefits. Approximately £200 million has already been invested into the Scottish economy, thanks to collaboration with more than 50 local suppliers. Companies such as Forth Ports in Dundee, I&H Brown, Briggs Marine, and Muir Construction have played pivotal roles in its development. Furthermore, the project’s Operations and Maintenance (O&M) base, launched in Eyemouth in January 2023. It currently employs 27 local workers and is projected to sustain up to 50 full-time roles over the wind farm’s 25-year operational life.
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Driving Community Engagement and Long-Term Impact
Equally important is NnG’s commitment to local community enrichment. So far, the initiative has supported 24 community programs across Scotland’s east coast. This ranges from youth sports teams to arts initiatives. The Eyemouth O&M facility has also become a hub for educational outreach, regularly hosting school groups and community tours. During a recent visit, First Minister John Swinney praised the wind farm’s broad impact. He described it as a model for how offshore renewable projects can strengthen communities while propelling the country toward its net-zero targets.
Scotland’s Shift to a Renewable Energy Future
Ultimately, Neart na Gaoithe represents a major milestone in Scotland’s journey toward a more sustainable and resilient energy system. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels and investing in scalable clean energy, the project exemplifies how infrastructure can align with environmental stewardship and social responsibility. As the wind farm enters full operation, it not only reshapes the Fife coastline. Additionally, it redefines the nation’s energy narrative for generations to come.
Project Overview
Location: 15.5 kilometers off the coast of Fife, Scotland.
Ownership: Jointly owned by EDF Renewables UK & Ireland and ESB.
Turbine Count: Comprises 54 Siemens Gamesa 8 MW offshore turbines.
Capacity: Generates up to 450 megawatts of electricity.
Homes Powered: Can power approximately 375,000 homes annually.
CO₂ Reduction: Offsets over 400,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.
First Power: Began generating electricity in October 2024.
Commissioning Date: Full commissioning scheduled for summer 2025.
Economic Contribution: Injected £200 million into the Scottish economy.
Local Supply Chain: Involved 50+ Scottish suppliers including Forth Ports, Briggs Marine, I&H Brown, and Muir Construction.
Jobs Created: The Eyemouth O&M base currently supports 27 local jobs, expanding to 50 over 25 years.
