SSE Onshore Wind Projects in Sutherland

A report by leading renewable energy developer and operator SSE Renewables has found that four wind farms in Sutherland in the Highlands of Scotland are expected to contribute £485 million to the UK economy, throughout their development, construction and operational life.

In 2020, BiGGAR Economics was commissioned by SSE Renewables to undertake a socio-economic impact assessment of four wind farms in Sutherland. These projects were:

• Strathy North Wind Farm, near the village of Strathy, which has a capacity of 67.65MW became operational in 2015;
• Achany Wind Farm, near Lairg, which has a capacity of 38MW and became operational in 2010;
• Gordonbush Wind Farm, west of Brora, which has a capacity of 71.75MW and became operational in 2012; and
• Gordonbush Extension, which has a capacity of 47MW and is expected to become operational in 2021.

This study found that the projects will generate £327 million GVA for the Scottish economy, of which £131 million GVA will be retained in Highland.

We've a report out today which shows how we're supporting communities in the Scottish Highland region of Sutherland. Read it at https://t.co/MC89PNw6WY and watch the video to find out about how our wind farms are supporting the #economy on the road to #netzero. #wepowerchange pic.twitter.com/TGtfGowpbi

— SSE Renewables (@sserenewables) April 23, 2021

Further details and results of the study can be found:

• Delivering Investment, Supporting Jobs – Understanding the socio-economic value for SSE Renewables’ projects in Sutherland – SSE Renewables Report
• Economic Impact of SSE Renewables Projects in Sutherland – BiGGAR Economics Report