Derry And Strabane Set For Economic Boost With Barr Cregg Wind Farm Consent

Leading renewable energy company RES has today received consent for Barr Cregg Wind Farm, near Derry/Londonderry. The seven-turbine project will be able to provide electricity for more than 12,200 homes – 21.1% of the households in Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

Fraser Merry, Head of Wind Projects, RES commented: “Barr Cregg Wind Farm has high levels of local support and will make a significant contribution to the Northern Ireland economy. We anticipated £7.77 million will be spent during construction and £6 million of inward investment in Derry and Strabane District Council area in the form of business rates. At RES, we have a track record of using local contractors to deliver our projects and look forward to working with businesses in the area to deliver Barr Cregg Wind Farm.”

The benefits of wind energy to Northern Ireland consumers are clear. A recent independent study by Baringa Partners, has shown that renewable electricity from wind has delivered a payback of £4 to every consumer, every year, since the year 2000 – driving down wholesale costs and reducing fuel imports.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. Following a High Court judgement in January 2018, the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) decision to dismiss RES’ appeal for Barr Cregg Wind Farm was quashed as result of the misinterpretation of planning policy and a failure to provide adequate reasons. Barr Cregg Wind Farm was approved by the Planning Appeals Commission in August 2019, following the withdrawal of Derry and Strabane Council’s reasons for refusal and full hearing by a Commissioner in October 2018.
    
2. The Wind Dividend: How Wind Pays Back for Northern Ireland, Baringa Partners, 2019
    
3. RES is the world’s largest independent renewable energy company active in onshore and offshore wind, solar, energy storage and transmission and distribution. At the forefront of the industry for over 35 years, RES has delivered more than 17 GW of renewable energy projects across the globe and supports an operational asset portfolio exceeding 5GW worldwide for a large client base. Understanding the unique needs of corporate clients, RES has secured over 1.3GW of power purchase agreements (PPAs) enabling access to energy at the lowest cost. RES employs more than 2,000 people and is active in 10 countries. For more information, visit www.res-group.com.