Alton Farm’s Medium Wind Turbine

A medium wind turbine feasibility study for a dairy farm in Aberdeenshire to offset energy supply and sustain customers.

Objective:

To determine the capacity and model of a medium wind turbine that can be installed on the Alton Farm property to offset the energy demand of the farm.

Outcome:

The feasibility study determined that Alton Farm can comfortably accommodate a single 275kW Vergnet wind turbine on a 55 metre tower. Both the 55 metre tower and 32 metre tower option were considered for the site with each option having merit for installation.

The Alton Farm property lies within an area of Landscape Significance, the slim tower of the 55 metre was considered less visually intrusive though the 32 metre tower was favourable due to its lower tower height.

Progressing forward from the feasibility study a sodar machine which measures wind speed was installed. This was to establish the extent the local topography may have on the effectiveness of an installed wind turbine and to further investigate the most appropriate height to achieve the greater payback.

A suitable connection to the local distribution network has been established. Further works are continuing to ascertain the impact local upgrades may have on the connection.

Landscape and visual works have been commissioned prior to the preparation and submission of a formal planning application.