Caledonia offshore wind farm consultation set for Buckie date

PEOPLE in the Buckie area are being invited to share their thoughts on plans to construct a new wind farm in the Moray Firth.

The Caledonia Offshore Wind Farm, a proposed project with a target 2GW capacity being developed in the Moray Firth, is holding a series of public consultation events for its Offshore Scoping Report. The consultation is due to come to Victoria Park Lounge on Thursday from 12 noon to 8pm.

Submitted to Marine Scotland in October this year, the report outlines the technologies under consideration for the development. It also details the work that will be undertaken for the Environmental Impact Assessment which will support the planning application for the project, expected to be made in 2024.

Caledonia Project Director, Mark Baxter commented: “The submission of the scoping report marks an important early milestone for the Caledonia offshore wind farm.

"As the first major public document submitted for the project, these consultation events provide a great opportunity for local people to share their thoughts and help shape the early development of the wind farm.

“Ocean Winds has extensive knowledge, experience and relationships in the Moray Firth, and we look forward to engaging with the individuals, organisations and communities who have an interest in the project."

Once fully commissioned – expected in 2030 – Caledonia will double the Moray Firth’s ability to supply low-cost, low-carbon electricity – with expected capacity meeting the average electricity needs of around two million homes.

Consultation events were also held in Wick and Fraserburgh.

A virtual consultation is also available to those unable to attend the events. Feedback can be provided at https://caledonia.virtual-engage.com/

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.