Plans lodged for new Rowancraig wind farm near Sanquhar

Koehler Renewable Energy (KRE) has submitted its proposals to Dumfries and Galloway Council for a six-turbine wind farm on the Barr Moor. 

The Rowancraig development is located on the eastern slope of Black Hill, approximately 4km west of Sanquhar.

Following feedback received during the consultation process, the decision was made to reduce the number of 180m turbines from eight to six.

Once operational, the turbines could generate enough energy to power approximately 35,973 homes and will aim to assist both Dumfries and Galloway Council and the Scottish Government in meeting their net-zero targets.

Rowancraig will provide opportunities for local businesses, both during construction and throughout the lifetime of the wind farm.

Also included is a community benefit fund, worth over £125,000 per year, depending on the ultimate capacity of the wind farm.

The fund will go to benefit projects in the area and conversations are already underway with local groups, including education partners and charities, about how to use it.

KRE held two rounds of statutory consultations in July and August 2023, in both Sanquhar and Kirkconnel.

These followed an introductory event held in November 2022 in Sanquhar to introduce KRE representatives and the project to those living locally.

Planners received a wide range of feedback from the local community, which was carefully considered and informed changes to the design.

Rowancraig wind farm. (Image: Koehler Renewable Energy)

Alan Mathewson, UK director of KRE, will also continue to work from Sanquhar monthly to answer any questions and provide regular updates.

He said: "KRE is delighted to submit these proposals after a constructive consultation process. We have spoken extensively with the local community and have sought to incorporate all views, wherever possible, into the final proposals, including a reduction in the number of turbines.

“We believe Rowancraig is a key development and in line with the Scottish Government's net zero ambitions. Conversations are ongoing with the community about ideas to utilise a potential community benefit fund. It is the commitment of the whole team to remain visible and accessible to answer any questions in the run-up to determination and beyond.

"Project updates and communications will be accessible through our website, and we invite anyone with additional comments to contact us.

"We thank everyone for their constructive feedback and engagement with the development, and we look forward to future discussions."