Unique renewables project is funding social housing in Scotland

A wind farm developed by a housing association has exceeded expectations in its first year of operation.

Since its construction last year, the Fisherman Three wind farm has generated 24 million units of clean electricity, helping to provide £37,500 in community benefits.

The project consists of three wind turbines located on the Scottish coast, near to a nuclear power station.

It was developed by the Berwickshire Housing Association (BHA) as an innovative way of funding new, affordable housing in the area. The non-profit organisation teamed up with Community Energy Scotland in a unique partnership which also funds local initiatives and lowers carbon emissions.

It’s expected that over the project’s 25-year lifespan it will generate £20 million in revenue, and support the construction of 500 new homes in the area.

The strong performance of the wind farm in its first year has powered the equivalent of 7,700 homes, more than BHA’s entire housing stock.

BHA’s Chief Executive Helen Forsyth said: “This has been a very good first year for us. It has been fascinating learning about the running of the wind farm and we are very upbeat about the future and the income we will be able to put back into the communities.”

The first payment will be spent on local community priorities and good causes, such as a new village hall.

Nicholas Gubbins, Chief Executive of CES, added: “We are delighted with the performance of The Fishermen Three, which has exceeded the forecast for its first year. The wind farm is on course to make an important financial contribution to our work helping Scottish communities address their energy issues.”

A second housing association in Scotland has since announced plans to develop a similar project to fund a range of community needs.