The area was first identified in late 2013 by Arise through early feasibility assessments which identified the potential for a large-scale wind development in the area.
Initially, the whole site was considered, but the preliminary surveys highlight several key constraints on the southern part of the land holding. Through further site investigation, the area where the proposed development is now located was identified.
Although this site had been identified many years ago it only became technically and economically viable when SSEN announced their plans to upgrade the electricity transmission system from the mainland to Skye – the Skye Reinforcement Project.
The proposed Development site forms part of the Fearann Eilean Iarmain estate on common grazing crofted by Breacais Ard and Breacais Local. The site is located on the Isle of Skye, approximately 6 km west of the Skye Bridge, and close to the A87, to the south of the Breakish settlement. The site lies between the A861 and the Glen Arroch Road and is bounded to the south by a forest edge and to the north by a line of pylons that crosses the moorland approximately 1 km south of the A87.
The site is set on gently sloping moorland and is on lower ground than the many well-known mountains on Skye and on the mainland. The south-eastern boundary of the site corresponds to the break of slope between the sloping moorland of the site and steeper forested ground leading up to the range of hills that form the south-eastern edge of Skye from Kylerhea to Sleate. The site is approximately 2.5 km from the coast north of Breakish. The site is suitable for rough grazing and sporting (stalking) interests.
Timeline
Initial Feasibility Study
Feasibility study update
Commence environmental surveys
Consultation and scoping
Identification of issues & surveys
Public exhibitions – 1st round
Development of layout – first design iterations
Technical assessment
Public exhibitions – 2nd round
Finalise design
Preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment Report
Complete on-site surveys
Submission of planning application
Assessment of application
Decision by ECU/Scottish Ministers
Construction start
Commissioning
Turbine layout design and design evolution
The design and layout has evolved over the two years of the environmental impact assessment process. From the initial feasibility studies looking at the entire land holding of the Fearann Eilean Iarmain estate in 2013 to the area proposed now in 2023.
Through working with our multi-discipline team, we have sought to minimise the environmental impact and optimise the energy yield, and we have worked closely with our landscape Architect to create a layout that sits well in the landscape.
Throughout the entire process, we have taken the comments and advice we have received from all parties on board and implemented this in our design. The areas covered in this survey process include ecology, hydrology, and ornithology surveys, as well as technical input from geotechnical and wind engineers. This multi-discipline approach allows for the final design produced to minimise the potential environmental impacts whilst optimising the energy output.
We have implemented the use of turbines up to 180 m tip height which are lower than many other developers, but these are appropriate for the site, and the wind resource and are considered reflective of the Scottish Government’s aspirations for optimising the site and demonstrating better energy yields.
It is a long process to develop a wind farm and we work closely with our consultants and the survey work they undertake is essential in designing a suitable layout. The advice and guidance that we receive from all statutory and non-statutory consultees as well as the landowners and community all assist in designing a layout that sits well in the environment.
Key drivers to the design process have been:
- To minimise impacts on sensitive peat habitats and minimise peat disturbance.
- To ensure that nearby residents are not subject to significant noise effects.
- Understand the environmental constraints on site to avoid areas that may affect the ornithological interest.
- To ensure turbines and associated infrastructure are sited a suitable distance from watercourses.
- Cause minimal visual impacts from settlements and key routes in the surrounding area.
- Maximise the renewable energy production.
2021 Feasibility Layout
19, 5MW wind turbines 180 metres to tip. Total output 95MW.
The initial design was prepared to maximise energy production and was based on the environmental constraints known from public data.
August 2022 Preliminary Layout
20, 5MW wind turbines, 180 metres to tip. Total output 100MW.
This design was informed by the first year’s surveys, considering the peat depth, ornithology, ecology and technical constraints.
November 2022 Scoping Layout
20, 5–6MW wind turbines, 180 metres to tip. Total output 100–120MW.
Additional survey information input as well as comments and advice received allowed the turbine positions to be refined from an aesthetic and environmental constraints perspective.
September 2023 Final Layout
16, 6.6MW wind turbines, 180 metres to tip. Total output 105.6MW.
This design is still subject to further refinement, mainly relating to civil engineering considerations. The final design incorporates.
- 30MW Battery storage facility.
- Site control room and connection switchgear.
- Redesigned network of access tracks.
- Temporary borrow pits and site compound.
Environmental benefits
Arise believes it is vital to conserve and help increase the biodiversity of any area they are developing in. Sustainability is evaluated throughout the development process. We are committed to ensuring that the Proposed Development leaves a positive impact not only on the site but also on the wider local area.
From two years of environmental studies, we have gained an in-depth knowledge of not only the Proposed Development area but the entire landholding which is aiding us in preparing an Outline Habitat Management and Restoration and Biodiversity Enhancement Plan.
This will outline the sustainable environmental benefits that will help to restore and increase the biodiversity net gain of the area and leave a positive legacy for the future. This will be submitted with the Section 36 application.
Why do we need ‘Net Gain for Nature’?
Biodiversity enhancement contributes to the recovery of nature when land is developed.
For Breakish Wind Farm, this means that not only will the site be restored after construction, but the habitat will be improved on other areas of the landholding making sure that overall, the area will be in a better state than it was before development took place.
A key part of part of our biodiversity enhancement plan is therefore to restore these areas.
The benefits of restoring peat include:
- Enhanced habitat for wildlife.
- Improving its ability to store carbon.
- Improved water retention of land.
Other biodiversity enhancement plans being assessed include:
- Broadleaf woodland regeneration to provide increased habitat connectivity.
- Riparian woodland planting to improve habitat for bats, otters, birds, fish.
- Provision of diver rafts to create further off-site habitat for divers and minimise potential displacement impacts.