By Claire Warrender
The UK and Scottish Governments have been accused of “turning cartwheels to
inflict monstrosities” on the people of Fife.
The comments by Graham Lang, chairman of anti-wind turbine group Scotland
Against Spin, follow an announcement that a Dutch firm wants to build two
demonstration turbines off the coast of Buckhaven.
2-B Energy intends to apply for permission for the 606ft structures
approximately a mile into the Firth of Forth.
If granted, the two or three-bladed turbines could be there for 20 years
while the company tests and demonstrates the new technology to the UK market.
They would be near the 646ft Samsung turbine, which has barely turned since
it was put up at Fife Energy Park last year.
Because the turbines would be offshore, the application will go to the
Scottish Government rather than Fife Council.
Mr Lang said: “While the Samsung turbine, Scotland’s biggest, most costly
green elephant stands idle, looming over the good folk of Methil, another
scheme for two turbines in the Firth starts its process through Marine
Scotland planning to be decided in due course by Scottish ministers.”
He added: “They are not very sure what they are applying for. It might have
two blades but it could have three.
“It might be on a lattice tower like a giant transmission tower but could
be a normal tubular tower.
“And if they don’t erect a demonstration turbine to experiment on they will
just put one up the same size from an established manufacturer.
“What is certain is that it is for a period of 20 years, which is way
beyond the normal lifespan of a demonstration turbine, so the development
is really for an offshore windfarm under the guise of an experimental
turbine to reduce turbine costs going forward.
“The UK and Scottish Governments are providing £5.5 million of funding and
will turn cartwheels to inflict these further monstrosities on the
residents of Methil, Buckhaven and Leven.”
Councillor Tom Adams, chairman of Levenmouth Area Committee, said it was
important local concerns were taken into consideration. Locals will be able
to discuss the plans at public meetings organised by 2-B Energy later this year.
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