Vattenfall stops development of Nant Bach wind farm in North Wales

Swedish energy giant Vattenfall has ditched plans for the 11-turbine Nant Bach wind farm near Conwy in North Wales.

Vattenfall had been developing the project for 10 years. The company has stated that its decision has been partially influenced by a shift in government policy.

According to the statement, Nant Bach wind farm, which was granted planning consent four years ago, no longer fitted with Vattenfall’s strategy.

The developer has stated that the 100m-high wind turbines were no longer economically viable as the company would have to refile for planning permissions if it were to use larger turbines.

The UK government recently announced changes in planning policies for onshore wind farms. In the revised policy residents of wind project sites have the final say over applications.

It makes securing consent for wind power projects difficult for project developers. If Vattenfall were to refile its application, it would also have to forfeit benefits of Renewables Obligation subsidy scheme, which the government is preparing to close for new farms beginning next year.

Vattenfall hasn’t disclosed the investment that has gone into developing Nant Bach.

Ajith Kumar S

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