RENEWABLE energy firm Natural Power, has been appointed to undertake services during the construction phase at the 50-turbine South Kyle wind farm, that could see 150 workers on site.

Natural Power, whose global headquarters are located just 15 miles from the site, in the Forrest Estate, will undertake the day-to-day site management on behalf of Vattenfall.

They will also supply other key services including engineering, planning, and design work.

Ralph Spernagel, Director of Construction at Natural Power, said: “We’re excited to be continuing to build on our relationship with Vattenfall here in our head office county, Dumfries and Galloway, where we have a strong history and excellent relationships with local stakeholders.

“Many of our team are based in nearby communities and it’s a fantastic development for the area’s economy and workforce, and we look forward to bringing our global knowledge and experience to Vattenfall’s largest onshore wind farm in the United Kingdom.”

The wind farm will be able to power roughly 170,000 UK homes, saving close to 300,000 tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions annually.

Paul Nickless, Vattenfall’s Project Manager for South Kyle Wind Farm, added: “South Kyle Wind Farm is one of the county’s most significant renewable energy projects of recent years and we are delighted to be working with Natural Power to deliver this major investment. As a business head-quartered around 15 miles from the site, this key contract signals Vattenfall’s continued commitment not only to the Scottish supply chain, but also to maximising opportunities for local businesses, jobs and skills development.” 

Natural Power has already been working with Vattenfall at South Kyle during the pre-construction phase, delivering site investigation, pre-construction planning work, ecology and hydrology services.

The wind farm at South Kyle will deliver a £38 million community benefit investment throughout the lifetime of the wind farm. This will be shaped by the needs of the communities of Dalmellington, Patna, New Cumnock and Carsphairn.

Preparatory works are in progress on site and the wind farm is expected to start generating electricity by early 2023.