A SMALL Strathspey community company is planning a three-turbine windfarm which could eventually fund a range of activities in the village.
The Nethybridge Community Development Company hopes to sell the electricity to the National Grid.
Each turbine would be 242ft and the whole development would be capable of generating around 2.5MW.
It is estimated that the project could generate a five-figure income for the community every year once capital costs are paid off.
A community survey carried out earlier this year showed support for the development and residents also suggested schemes which could benefit from the fund raised. They included making improvements to the community centre and the Old Kirk; supporting Explore Abernethy; providing support for older people, creating projects for young people and providing local transport.
If the project goes ahead, there would be further community consultation to draw up a plan for allocating the funds. This would include keeping a proportion for reinvestment and creating a long-term endowment fund for the community.
A planning application has now been lodged with Highland Council to site an anemometer at the proposed site, at Corriechullie Farm, just off the A939 Grantown to Tomintoul road.
This equipment will measure wind speed to ensure that the site is suitable for such a development.
It is expected that this equipment will remain in place for around a year.
The community company will then use the data to approach potential funders before putting in a planning application for the turbines.
Nethybridge Community Development Company chairman Neil Sutherland said: “Many other communities around the Highlands are setting up similar projects and creating an independent source of income that can be invested in community projects that will make life better for local people and develop the economy.
“This is a great opportunity for the village, ” he added
The community is one of 50 throughout Scotland aiming to run similar schemes.
There are around 12 already operating in the Highlands and islands.
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