The final wind turbine blade has been lifted into place at SSE’s Stronelairg wind farm as the project nears completion.
The 66-turbine farm, south-east of Fort Augustus, was controversial when first proposed as it sits in the Monadhliath Mountains, over 600 meters above sea level.
David Sutton, SSE’s head of projects, said: “It’s fantastic to see Stronelairg reach this important milestone. Since construction began back in 2016, the project team has battled some unique challenges, including severe weather and the beast from the east, difficult road conditions and geography as they worked to reach this milestone.
“Their ability to safely and responsibly deliver the project to this point shows the skills and expertise of the team and they should be immensely proud of their work so far.
“I’d like to thank the local community, Highland Council, Police Scotland and Transport Scotland for their support throughout the construction of the project. Without the supportive relationship built by the team delivery of the project would not be possible”
The Stronelairg team has worked closely with the local community throughout the project, taking their feedback on board, including amending the turbine delivery times from day time to evening deliveries to help minimise any disruption to the bustling tourist season in the area.
Stronelairg leaves a development legacy in the village of Fort Augustus, delivering over £3million of road, footpath and crossing upgrades, greatly improving road safety for the local community and visiting tourists.
Most notably Stronelairg constructed and helped to complete the final section of the South Loch Ness cycle and walking trail which was officially opened in August this year.
Stronelairg is be part of SSE’s onshore wind portfolio of over 60 wind farms across the UK and Ireland.
