According to SSE, these onshore wind projects will play a pivotal role in SSE plc's Net Zero Acceleration Programme Plus.
SSE Renewables, a leading renewable energy company, recently announced that they have been awarded a 15-year contract for over 0.6 gigawatts (GW) of new onshore wind generation. The company's onshore wind farm projects in Scotland and the Shetland Islands secured CfDs, marking a significant milestone in the UK's transition towards low-carbon power generation.
The successful projects include the Strathy South, Aberarder, and Bhlaraidh Extension onshore wind farms located in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, along with the Viking Wind Farm project, currently under construction in the Shetland Islands. Together, these projects will contribute a total of 605 megawatts (MW) of new renewable energy to the UK's energy mix.
According to the company, the projects' success in securing CfDs comes after a rigorous competition in 'Pot 1' of the UK Government's Allocation Round 5, where they competed against various technologies, including offshore wind, hydro, energy from waste with combined heat and power (CHP), and solar photovoltaic (PV).
According to SSE, these onshore wind projects will play a pivotal role in SSE plc's Net Zero Acceleration Programme Plus, a fully funded five-year investment plan aiming to invest £18 billion ($22,5 billion) by 2027 in critical national infrastructure. This investment plan includes boosting SSE Renewables' net capacity from its current 4GW to more than 9GW, with approximately 3GW currently under construction.
Stephen Wheeler, Managing Director for SSE Renewables, expressed his satisfaction with the onshore wind contracts secured, stating, "Onshore wind, like offshore, is a critical component of the net-zero transition with an essential role to play in decarbonizing the UK's energy supply." He emphasized that changes to the framework for offshore wind are essential to maintain energy security while keeping costs low. Wheeler also highlighted the opportunity for the UK to lead in renewables, saying, "We stand ready to make these investments and look forward to working constructively with the Government to build on our past successes."
Source: SSE