The Green Knowes Windfarm, located near Glendevon, Perthshire, has been a landmark in the Ochil Hills since it first became operational in 2008. The original site consists of 18 turbines with a total generating capacity of 27 Megawatts (MW), which has provided clean energy to the equivalent of approximately 15,000 households for nearly two decades.
As the existing turbines approach the end of their operational lifespan, the project has moved into a repowering phase. This process involves the decommissioning and removal of the older first-generation machines to be replaced by modern wind turbine technology.
Key Development Details
Modernisation: Repowering typically allows for a significant increase in energy production — often three to ten times the original capacity — while frequently utilising a smaller total number of turbines.
Current Stage: The project is listed as being in development, with ongoing baseline environmental surveys and technical studies to inform the new design.
Landscape and Environment: Design iterations are focused on integrating the new, larger turbines within the surrounding Ochils landscape. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are required to evaluate effects on local ecology, hydrology, and visual amenity.
Community Benefits: The project intends to continue and potentially increase Community Benefit Funding. To date, such funds from operational sites have supported a wide range of local initiatives, from educational programmes to habitat restoration.
For more information on the development process, visit the ScottishPower Renewables website or the Energy Consents Unit for official planning documents.