A proposal for a new wind farm that could generate enough power for 44,000 homes are being discussed in Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen this month.
The proposed site for the new wind turbines is between Abertillery and Abersychan. RWE, one of Wales' largest electricity generators, said the development is in its early stages.
If the plans are approved, the site could boast up to six wind turbines with a maximum blade height of 200m and could generate up to 36 megawatts of renewable electricity. The energy-saving project would aim to be fully operational by 2027.
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An informal public consultation is currently taking place, and two in-person events at Abertillery and Abersychan later this week. The consultations will be an opportunity for local people to have their say on the energy-saving project.
Ollie Piper, RWE’s project manager leading on the development, said: “The plans for the proposed Abertillery Wind Farm are at an early stage in development, and our intention at this initial public consultation is to share information with interested groups, and provide an opportunity for local people to speak with the project team. We will also be looking for feedback on the environmental and visual aspects of the project, as well as to hear what local people will want as part of a community benefits package. We believe that there is good potential on this site for a renewable energy project, which will help tackle climate change and secure energy supplies.”
The proposed site is registered as common land and parts of the project will be on Mynydd James and Gwastad Common. This means RWE will require separate planning permission from Welsh Government to develop on the land.
The Welsh Government is aiming to meet 100% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2035, and RWE say the wind farm could support the Welsh Government’s aim for shared or local ownership – this is where a local organisation or public body invests and receives a direct share of any profits. RWE has also invited Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen Councils to explore this possibility.
The local community is being invited to have its say on the early plans, with events being held at Abersychan, Millennium Hall on Friday, March 10 between 3pm-7pm and Abertillery, Wyndham Vowles Community Centre on Saturday, March 11, between 9.30am-1.30pm.
You can complete the informal consultation form here, which ends on Tuesday, March 21.
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