Overview
Lochluichart (Extension) is an 18 MW onshore wind farm in the Scottish Highlands, operated by Infinergy. It contributes to the UK's renewable energy capacity.
Lochluichart (Extension) is an onshore wind farm located in the Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom. With a capacity of 18 MW, it is a medium-scale facility within the UK's wind energy sector, which has seen significant growth under the UK's Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme. The facility uses modern wind turbine technology to convert wind energy into electricity. The UK's renewable energy policy, including the CfD regime and the target of net-zero emissions by 2050, supports projects like this. The Scottish government also has ambitious renewable energy targets, aiming for 50% of energy from renewables by 2030. This wind farm plays a role in reducing carbon emissions and supporting the local grid. Its location in the Highlands takes advantage of strong wind resources, though it requires careful consideration of visual and environmental impacts, such as effects on bird populations and peatland habitats.
Environmental context
The Scottish Highlands offer strong wind resources ideal for onshore wind energy. However, wind farm development must address visual impacts on the landscape and potential effects on bird and bat populations. The region's peatland habitats also require careful management to avoid carbon release during construction.
Frequently asked questions
Lochluichart (Extension) is located in the Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom, near Loch Luichart.
The wind farm has a capacity of 18 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale onshore wind installation.
The wind farm is owned and operated by Infinergy, a renewable energy company active in the UK.
The UK supports onshore wind through the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, which provides stable revenue for low-carbon electricity generation.
Wind farms in the Highlands must assess impacts on landscapes, bird and bat populations, and peatland carbon stores, with mitigation measures required.