Borders Wind Farm Questioned Amid Net Zero Target Achievements

The council objected to a wind farm near Heriot. It would sit about two kilometers south. Fountainhall is about 2.5 kilometers away. The council feared a negative impact on the environment.

The developers, Coriolis Energy and ESB, disagreed with this assessment. Much of the land is grazing fields, interspersed with small patches of forest. The proposed turbines would reach 180 meters.

Dr. Christopher Ford spoke for the council, discussing energy market changes and UK government policy shifts. He said Scotland will meet its 2030 goals comfortably.

In his view, this wind farm wouldn’t help because its grid connection is projected for 2031.
Dr. Ford submitted a written statement, noting the many renewable energy projects proposed. He stated the UK has seen a fundamental change.

He explained that a decade ago, there was an urgent need for renewable energy, and almost any proposal deserved approval to reach net zero quickly. Now, things are different. The UK has ample proposed renewable energy, exceeding what we need for net zero. Decision-making can now be selective.

Only projects with minimal environmental harm and the cheapest options for consumers should pass. Dr. Ford doesn’t believe this one qualifies. The Heriot Community Council agreed in their written submission. John Williams wrote they don’t see any current need, as foreseeable needs have already been planned for.

Williams added that there are no community benefits and it would not benefit local landowners. He said this is an unsuitable location.

The developers believe it will cut CO2 emissions, and their technology helps the environment by offsetting power from fossil fuels. They noted wind power reduces energy bills and is the cheapest new power source. Also, wind is a stable renewable resource, unaffected by global issues. They suggested energy storage might stabilize the grid, further helping the power supply and keeping things consistent.

The developers would create a community fund of £5,000 per MW to support local projects. They chose the site for several reasons: high wind speeds, lack of protected landscape areas, and easy accessibility from roads.

The public inquiry’s oral sessions are now over. The applicant’s final remarks are set for March 3.