North Hoyle Onshore Wind Farm | United Kingdom Renewable Energy Facility

North Hoyle is an onshore wind farm located off the coast of North Wales, United Kingdom. With a capacity of 60 MW, it was one of the first major offshore wind farms in the UK, though it is classified as onshore in this dataset. The facility is owned by Greencoat (formerly Npower Renewables) and has been operational since 2003, playing a key role in the early development of the UK's wind energy sector. The UK operates under the Renewable Energy Directive III (2023/2413) with a target of 42.5% renewable energy by 2030. North Hoyle benefits from the UK's Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, which provides stable revenue for renewable generators. The 60 MW capacity places it in the medium-to-large scale for onshore wind, typical of early UK wind farms that helped establish the industry. Environmentally, North Hoyle contributes to reducing carbon emissions by displacing fossil fuel generation. Its coastal location may involve considerations for bird and marine life, though specific impacts are managed through standard environmental assessments. The facility supports the UK's grid integration of renewable energy and demonstrates the viability of wind power in the region.

The North Hoyle wind farm is situated in the Irish Sea, an area with significant bird populations and marine habitats. Wind farms in this region must address potential impacts on bird migration and marine life through environmental monitoring and mitigation measures. The facility's operation contributes to the UK's renewable energy goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.