Proposed Derry Windfarm To Create 30 Building Jobs

Renewables and energy storage firm Gaelectric has submitted a planning application for a wind farm at Smulgedon, Londonderry, which has the potential to create 30 construction jobs.

The site, located north-east of Dungiven, will consist of seven wind turbines with a maximum blade tip height of 121.2m. The site is currently used for agricultural purposes.

Once operational, the wind farm would produce electricity equivalent to the demand of approximately 10,500 homes.

Mike Denny, Operations Director at Gaelectric, said: "We are confident that the Smulgedon site could play a key role in the development of renewable energy in the local area."

"Gaelectric has undertaken an environmental assessment of the site and a comprehensive consultation exercise with local community and environmental bodies in terms of development of the proposal," he said.

"It is envisaged that the construction phase will create approximately 30 construction jobs (short-term) and involve a multimillion pound investment in the local economy," added Mr Denny.

A community fund to assist local community projects and initiatives will also be established should the wind farm be given the go ahead.

This will consist of an initial one-off payment of up to £35,000 and thereafter up to £10,500 per annum over 25 years once operational.

If given planning permission, the wind farm will assist Northern Ireland in meeting its targets of 12% of electricity consumption to be obtained from renewable sources by 2012.

(PR/JM)