The first turbines at the North Kyle Wind Farm, near New Cumnock, East Ayrshire, have been successfully installed, marking a significant milestone in the project. Once fully operational in October 2024, the 49 turbines will generate enough electricity to power nearly 170,000 homes across southern Scotland.
Developed by Brockwell Energy, the North Kyle Wind Farm is part of a larger effort to regenerate one of Scotland’s former surface coal mining sites. The project is expected to deliver £65 million in Community Benefit funds over its lifetime, supporting local development and regeneration.
Elaine Stewart, MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock, praised the collaborative approach, saying, “The installation of the first turbines is an important step for this flagship project. Brockwell’s efforts to engage with local communities highlight the importance of including them in the development of onshore windfarms.”
In addition to its environmental impact, the wind farm will generate significant economic benefits, including immediate and long-term funding for local communities through the 9CC Group. Brockwell Energy has already committed an extra £2.6 million towards restoring the former mining site.
Powersystems, were awarded the electrical balance of plant works contract, which included the design and installation of the the electrical infrastructure, and commissioning the 33 kV substation and connection cables, ensuring the turbines are seamlessly integrated into the National Grid. Construction activities, led by civil engineers Jones Bros, commenced in June 2023 and are expected to continue for two years.
With a lifespan of 40 years, the North Kyle Wind Farm will not only contribute to Scotland’s net-zero goals but also serve as a blueprint for future community-driven renewable energy projects in the UK.
North Kyle Wind Farm Facts
- North Kyle will be Brockwell Energy’s largest onshore wind farm in the UK
- Number of Vestas is 49 V136/4.5 MW machines on tubular steel towers
- The maximum installed capacity is 220.5 MW, the maximum export capacity (grid connection size) is 212 MW
- Total height from tip of rotor blade is 149.9 meters
- Once constructed, the wind farm will be able to power approximately 163,000 homes in the UK
- Commercial operation of the wind farm is planned to start Q3, 2025
- At the peak of construction, the scheme will require around 150 workers on site, and once operational the 212 MW wind farm will make a significant contribution to Scotland’s net-zero ambitions
As part of building the UK carbon free future, Powersystems proudly support the design, installation, and commissioning of climate restoration technologies with connectivity in all renewable sectors.
Powersystems are powering the UK to a green recovery, with 6 GW of installed green energy as they play their part helping to decarbonise the National Grid.
Notes to Editors:
Contact Information:
- This article is written by Jules Daly, Marketing and Communications Manager at Powersystems.
- Email jules.daly@powersystemsuk.com Telephone 01454 318000
- Photography Copyright please credit all images used to powersystemsuk.co.uk
Powersystems are powering the transition to a carbon free future
Powersystems is a leading high voltage specialist electrical engineering company with over 47 years of experience. Renowned for its expertise and reliability, Powersystems has become a trusted provider of design, installation, and commissioning services for electrical infrastructure and grid connections across the UK.
As the first Lloyds National Electricity Registration Scheme accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP), Powersystems has been delivering contestable grid connections at voltages up to 132 kV for 27 years.
Since 2000, Powersystems has successfully connected over 6.1 gigawatts of renewable energy to the UK electricity grid. Our projects span many sectors from onshore and offshore wind, solar energy, tidal and hydroelectric power, electric vehicle infrastructure, as well as generation installations for short-term operating reserves (STOR), combined heat and power (CHP), grid stability initiatives such as rotating stabilisers, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and commercial industrial private wire networks.
In collaboration with partners, Powersystems has connected 30% of all onshore wind farms in the UK, contributing significantly to the nation’s renewable energy capacity to collectively work towards a sustainable future to help the UK achieve Net Zero by 2050.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our integrated management systems, which are ISO accredited, and our rigorous approach to health and safety under the ‘Priority No.1’ brand, ensuring best practices across the industry.
Powersystems UK Ltd. is an employee-owned business that values the well-being of its employees, fostering an environment where innovation is encouraged, and everyone is empowered to share ideas and contribute to the company’s success.
Speak to Powersystems today
You can contact us as follows