Environmental Benefits
Wind turbines generate electricity from wind, which produces significantly lower carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Vattenfall recognises that, for the environmental benefits of wind farms to be realised, they need to be well designed and take account of the environment in which they are located. Vattenfall aims to develop wind farms that are designed with consideration for the local environment.
In keeping with this approach the Ourack wind farm proposal was developed following detailed environmental surveys and assessments including:
- Landscape and Visual Amenity;
- Cultural Heritage and Archaeology;
- Air Quality;
- Noise and Vibration;
- Ecology and Ornithology;
- Geology, Hydrology and Hydrogeology
By incorporating the results of these assessments and feedback from key consultees into the proposal, the design reflects sensitivity to the local environment.
If constructed, the Ourack Wind Farm will be accompanied by a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and a Habitat Management Plan (HMP). These plans will use survey results, the latest available data, and stakeholder feedback to help protect the local environment and support opportunities for habitat improvement.
In addition to environmental surveys, technical assessments were also completed to ensure the proposal could be delivered responsibly with minimised impacts on stakeholders and key businesses, including residents and Inverness Airport.
These assessments included:
- Access, Traffic and Transport;
- Telecommunications;
- Aviation
