The government of Scotland has rejected CWP Energy’s application to build the Scoop Hill Wind Farm. This project had originally been sited almost 5 kilometers southeast of Moffat. The proposal was originally submitted back in 2020 for an initial 75 turbines. In 2023, we changed it to bring the number down to 60. Even with that adjustment, opposition to the project coalesced, and the project was not approved. Severe damage was feared, especially its expected effects on the quality of the landscape and visual environment.
When completed, if permitted, the Scoop Hill Wind Farm will have a stunning wind capacity of 432 megawatts. It will feature a 200 megawatt battery energy storage facility. The project will support more than 250 construction jobs. On top of that, it’ll add £5 million annually in business rates to the local economy. In addition, it committed to providing £2 million a year in community benefit funding, with the intention of using this money to support projects from local communities.
The site was relatively shovel-ready, with a grid connection already in the works to get the project up and running by 2027. Although the proposal was ultimately rejected on environmental grounds, the decision sparked fears about the loss of the expected economic benefits from a thriving UK-based manufacturing industry. Our Vestas Isle of Wight factory is at risk of serious consequences. This facility directly employs 600 workers and it is one of only two U.S. facilities that produces large wind turbine blades.
Rod Wood, a development director with CWP Energy, said Thursday’s decision disappointed them. He accused both administrations of failing to meaningfully engage with the proposal. He further lamented the lost opportunity for a big down payment on infrastructure investment.
“It’s a disappointment that a £1bn investment from a UK business is turned down without any tangible engagement from both governments. Great claims are made about creating a growth environment and encouraging investment in infrastructure to reduce bills for consumers. Post Brexit, investors had hoped for a Pro-Business and Pro-Growth environment creating jobs and a future. This refusal is a case in point that blockers remain in the heart of Government and nothing’s changed.” – Rod Wood
The rejection is a major disappointment not just for CWP Energy, but puts into question Scotland’s willingness to commit to offshore renewable energy projects. As the country aims to transition towards sustainable energy solutions, such setbacks may hinder progress and deter future investments in the sector.