Overview
Achairn is a 6.2 MW onshore wind farm in the United Kingdom, operated by James and Ronald Innes. The facility contributes to the UK's renewable energy capacity under the Contracts for Difference scheme.
Achairn is an operational onshore wind farm located in the United Kingdom, with a capacity of 6.2 MW. Developed by James and Ronald Innes, the facility represents a small-scale contribution to the country's renewable energy portfolio. Onshore wind is a mature technology in the UK, supported by stable regulatory frameworks. The wind farm operates under the UK's Contracts for Difference (CfD) regime, which guarantees a fixed price for electricity generated, reducing revenue risk. The UK has a target of 50 GW of offshore wind by 2030, but onshore wind remains a key component, particularly in Scotland where wind resources are abundant. The facility's capacity of 6.2 MW places it in the small-to-medium scale category for onshore wind. Environmentally, the wind farm displaces fossil fuel generation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Its location in the Scottish Highlands may involve considerations for visual impact and bird habitats, though specific environmental assessments are not detailed. The facility supports local energy needs and contributes to the UK's net-zero emissions target by 2050.
Environmental context
The wind farm is situated in the Scottish Highlands, an area with high wind speeds ideal for renewable energy generation. The local environment includes moorland and agricultural land, which may support bird species such as golden eagles and red kites. Wind farms in this region must consider visual impact on the landscape and potential bird collisions, though modern turbine designs and siting practices aim to mitigate these effects.
Frequently asked questions
Achairn wind farm is located in the United Kingdom, specifically in the Scottish Highlands near the village of Achairn, with coordinates 58.4385 N, -3.2015 W.
The Achairn wind farm has a capacity of 6.2 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale onshore wind installation.
The Achairn wind farm is operated by James and Ronald Innes, who are the owners and operators of the facility.
Onshore wind in the UK is supported by the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, which provides stable revenue for generators. The UK also has a target to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, with renewable energy playing a key role.
Onshore wind farms in Scotland must consider visual impact on the landscape, noise, and effects on wildlife such as birds and bats. Environmental impact assessments are typically required, and modern turbine designs help minimize these impacts.