The Orkney Islands Council has reached a significant milestone in its ambitious wind farm project as planning approval has been granted for a new electricity transmission link. Ofgem, the energy regulator, required a total of 135MW of renewable generation to justify the installation of the 220MW cable.

The project encompasses three wind farms, each consisting of six turbines. These wind farms are located at Quanterness in St Ola, Wee Fea in Hoy, and the island of Faray. Once operational, these wind farms are expected to generate a substantial amount of renewable energy, contributing to Orkney's decarbonization efforts.

By harnessing the power of wind, Orkney aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and make significant progress towards its carbon reduction goals. The approval of the transmission link brings the Orkney Community Wind Farm Project one step closer to realization.

James Stockan, Leader of the Orkney Islands Council, expressed the potential socio-economic benefits of the wind farms and emphasized the need for new sources of income amidst the council's financial challenges and the current cost of living crisis. In addition to the economic advantages, the wind farms will also contribute to the council's carbon reduction aspirations and align with the targets set by the Scottish and UK governments.