Overview
Crockdun is a 12.5 MW onshore wind farm in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, operated by ESB (Northern Wind Power). It contributes to the UK's renewable energy targets under the Contracts for Difference scheme.
Crockdun is an operational onshore wind farm located in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. With a capacity of 12.5 MW, it is a medium-scale wind facility that supports the region's transition to renewable energy. The plant is owned by ESB (Northern Wind Power), a key player in the UK's wind energy sector. The facility operates under the UK's regulatory framework, which includes the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme that provides stable revenue for low-carbon electricity generation. Onshore wind is a mature technology in the UK, benefiting from strong wind resources and grid infrastructure. The 12.5 MW capacity places Crockdun among the smaller commercial wind farms, typical for onshore sites in the region. Crockdun plays a role in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security in Northern Ireland. Wind power is a cornerstone of the UK's strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and facilities like Crockdun contribute to local clean energy generation. The farm's operation aligns with the UK's Renewable Energy Directive targets and supports the decarbonization of the electricity grid.
Environmental context
Onshore wind farms like Crockdun can have visual impacts on the landscape and may affect local bird and bat populations through collision risks. However, proper siting and mitigation measures help minimize these effects. The facility's location in Northern Ireland benefits from consistent wind speeds, making it a viable site for renewable energy generation. The UK's stringent environmental regulations ensure that wind farms are developed responsibly, balancing energy needs with ecological considerations.
Frequently asked questions
Crockdun wind farm is located in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, at coordinates 54.5689 N, -7.0494 W.
Crockdun wind farm has a capacity of 12.5 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale onshore wind facility.
Crockdun wind farm is owned by ESB (Northern Wind Power), a subsidiary of the Irish energy company ESB Group.
Onshore wind in the UK is supported by the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, which provides guaranteed prices for low-carbon electricity, and the UK's commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050.
Onshore wind farms can have visual impacts on landscapes and may pose risks to birds and bats through collisions. However, environmental assessments and mitigation measures are required to minimize these effects.