During the development of the wind farm, environmental and ecological issues were studied in detail as part of the independent Environmental Impact Assessment. Key areas studies included:
Surface & Ground Water
The mapping and analysis of all surface and ground water courses was a key component of the environmental assessment. The purpose is to assess any likely impacts on water quantity and quality within both the development area and surrounding countryside. Study methodologies were agreed with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the results fed into the overall windfarm design process. Prior to construction, and currently through the construction period, a series of comprehensive, tried and tested methods have been used to monitor and prevent surface and ground water pollution.
Noise
Modern wind turbines are a very quiet form of generation and the noise emitted is so little that it is possible to hold a conversation under a turbine without raising your voice. Noise levels at nearby residences were measured and analysed to ensure that a wind farm will not be a noise nuisance to its neighbours.
Ecology
Scottish Natural Heritage and local wildlife groups were consulted, and assessments carried out to establish the effect of the development on local flora and fauna. Baseline information gathered from site surveys were fed into the overall design process to ensure access roads and turbines don’t impact on sensitive ecology, flaura and fauna.
Ornothology
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has been fully consulted through the development of the project and extensive bird surveys were carried out over several seasons, by day and night, to establish the level of local bird life. Following this, detailed plans for habitat management have been developed to benefit and enhance the area surrounding the wind farm.
As part of GDF SUEZ Energy UK’s commitment to conserving and protecting the local environment, we have a memorandum of understanding with the Central Scotland Black Grouse & Capercaillie Study Group (CSBG&CSG), a constituted voluntary group made up of individuals who have an interest in black grouse and capercaillie conservation. Part of the planning application made by GDF SUEZ Energy UK for the Craigengelt windfarm included a management plan for black grouse. The plan included the donation of £100, 000 over a three year period to implement black grouse management in the wider Carron Valley area of Stirlingshire.
GDF SUEZ Energy UK also carries out Hen Harrier management to an area to the west of the site, utilising external experts to carry out Vantage point surveys of the area and also actively manage the land to promote Hen Harrier activity.
Archaeology
Both national and local archaeological groups were consulted to establish if proposed sites are likely to have significant impacts on heritage sites or archaeological remains.