4 - The Power to repower

04

THE POWER TO REPOWER

Beth Girvan, Lead Project Consultant at Cogeo

When East Lothian Eggs needed a renewable energy solution to power its growing egg production business, the challenge was clear: generate 2,000,000 kWh of energy annually in a way that was both cost-effective and sustainable, while aligning with planning requirements.

The answer wasn’t as straightforward as that seems; however, at Cogeo, we’re problem solvers and relish our role in turning planning challenges into solutions and opportunities. A turbine of the required capacity meant a minimum tip height of 67m, yet local guidance — the East Lothian Wind Capacity Study* — (the document that determines which size of turbine is acceptable in which area) limited turbines to just 43m.

What hope did we have? Why tackle a project with so many roadblocks ahead? The answer to these questions lies in experience and knowledge, not accepting what’s in front of you as final. Importantly, the Capacity Study* is only a guidance document, not policy. Published in 2014 (an eternity in the age of renewable energy) and written for a broad area, the document specifically states: “The landscape and visual sensitivity assessment is a strategic level study and development proposals will still require to be considered on a case-by-case basis”.

Now, we were adding some hope to the project.

At first glance, it was apparent that applying our core values of Collaboration, Communication, and Clarity was essential to success.

In the following project case study article, learn how we:

Achieved planning consent for a turbine against Local Authority Guidance.

Used a 5-stage process effectively and what the outcome means for similar projects.

Delivered a project that effectively saves the client £280,000 annually.

Why was a turbine the solution?

The site has already benefited from 400 kW of roof-mounted solar, covering summer energy use. However, in winter, it still relies heavily on grid-imported electricity, compounded further by a 1 MW heat pump, which is heavily relied upon to provide an optimal environment during colder weather. More solar wasn’t the answer; only a wind turbine would produce enough, consistent power.

We considered smaller turbines that complied with guidance. However, due to operational requirements, noise restrictions, and issues such as turbulence from the hen sheds and nearby trees, a taller turbine was the only viable and sensible option. Even with the taller turbine being the right choice, it meant challenging the local guidance was the next step.

Before we explore our process, let’s examine the Illustrative example of using a refurbished turbine to generate on-site power.

Cost of turbine	£650,000
Annual Maintenance	£25,000
Energy Produced	2,000,000 kWh
Used on site	65%
Cost of importing power	£0.22
Paid for exporting power	£0.09
Money Saved	£286,000
Money Earned	£54,000
Payback	2.0 years

COGEO'S

PROCESS

Our team always follows the same 5 steps for any project. This allows us to assess risk, develop the project and work efficiently towards the end goal. This is how that process was implemented at Howden.

Review

The core principle we needed to establish was the potential landscape and visual impact. We created photomontages from key viewpoint locations to assess various turbine options and siting locations for the development.

Design

Following our detailed visual analysis, our team developed a site-specific assessment and design, optimising both performance and aesthetics to finalise the location and layout of the final project.

Assess

Our Environmental Impact Assessment specialist conducted desk-based and in-field assessments, addressing a range of factors including noise, shadow flicker, ecology and transport, while balancing technical requirements with local sensitivity.

Apply

Our planning team submitted and managed the planning application, representing and presenting a strong case for the development at the East Lothian Planning Committee.

Construct

With consent granted (the planning consent has some conditions to address in advance of construction), we’ll work with turbine installation and maintenance company, Rengineers B.V., to ensure compliance with planning consent during the construction phase.

OUTCOME

The application was consented to by 6 votes to 2 in favour of overturning the Case Officer’s original decision to refuse the application.

The key takeaways from the planning committee were:

Councillors acknowledged the ‘shifting baseline’ of understanding and appreciating renewable energy in the landscape

The date of the capacity study puts it at odds with the Climate Emergency, National Planning Policy and modern-day renewable energy technology

No consultees objected, apart from the LPAs’ own Landscape Officer (citing conflict with the Wind Capacity Study)

Using the energy on-site, creating energy independence, was an essential factor of the project’s merits

Supporting a locally-owned, rural business was given significant weight

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR

TURBINE PROJECTS?

Now that this project has been approved, and it has challenged the fundamental validity of ageing wind capacity studies, does this mean Scotland is open to large turbines everywhere?

Quite simply, no. Our success with this particular project doesn’t undermine the impact of the consent, but as with every application, it needs to be determined site-specifically and on its merits. Landscape & Visual impact remains a material consideration for planning applications. Still, it does give weight to the notion that “the landscape and visual sensitivity assessment is a strategic level study, and development proposals will still need to be considered on a case-by-case basis”.

We are seeing an evolution in thinking with planning authorities across our portfolio of sites. Local Authorities are acknowledging that NPF4 and its focus on the climate emergency is an important overarching national policy. There is also a reality: the range of smaller turbines previously deployed is not available. Renewable Energy is in a new era. Repowering is a vital lifeline to many ailing turbine projects and can breathe new life into sites. Will policy at local level reflect this new era? Only time will tell. Our hope is that Councils recognise the vital role these projects play and that the shifting perception of wind energy needs to be ackowldged and addressed to empower decision-makers to consent larger turbines. Quite simply, they need to be given the power to repower.

Considering repowering your turbine?

If you're considering repowering your turbine, or developing a turbine for the first time? Here’s what information we’ll need to assess your site.

What turbine have you got currently installed?
What is your grid connection?
What is your current feed-in-tariff rate?
How much energy are you using on-site?
What land do you own?

Our team is here to support you through the development process from Review until Construction.

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05 - POLICY NEWS

04