Almost 6,000 new full-time equivalent jobs could be created in the Western
Isles if the construction of two planned Lewis Wind Power turbine parcs –
already approved by the local cooncil – go ahead.
This is the key conclusion of a cost-benefits analysis compiled by BVG
Associates, an independent energy consultancy, for the EDF – Lewis Wind
Power project partners if the Stornoway and Uisenis wind turbine parcs
proceed to development.
In addition to the renewable energy generation assets, the project also
provides for construction of a high-voltage DC connection to the UK Grid
and further onshore wind developments, which would generate 5,970 full time
equivalent job years and £164 million in local value added for the Western
Isle economy.
The BVG Associates’ analysis is based on a scenario in which a high voltage
grid connection with a 600MW capacity is built, both EDF ER wind farms are
built to their consented capacity (342MW) by 2021 plus a further 180MW of
onshore wind farms. This additional capacity includes the consented 46MW
Tolsta project, plus a number of smaller wind farms.
Local benefit for the Western Isles would be greater than for other local
communities with other mainland onshore wind farms because:
There is a significant pool of available construction workers on the islands
A high priority is placed on community ownership by Western Isles
Development Trust and the local cooncil, and
Due to accessibility, contractors will find it more costly than on the
mainland to bring in workers.
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