The proposed Development comprises solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that will provide up to 49.9 MW of power.
Above: Site Location Plan
Introduction
In January 2022, ScottishPower Renewables (SPR) acquired Milltown Solar PV project from Elgin Energy as part of a portfolio of 17 projects with a combined capacity of more than 800 MW. The portfolio will be the largest to be delivered in the UK’s post-subsidy market, demonstrating the key role that solar PV combined with storage will play in the UK’s future generation mix, providing flexible and competitive renewable energy.
Location
The Solar site would consist of solar panels arranged in rows and it is expected that the panels would collectively have a capacity of approximately 49.9MW, enough low carbon electricity to power approximately 15,000 homes every year.
Access will be taken to the site via the B9103 road. This road leads directly to the A96 trunk road with a junction between Elgin and Lhanbryde to the south of the site.
View the site layout plan
Proposed Development/ Project History
A Section 36 planning application was submitted by Elgin Energy in 2017 and consented in May 2018. The consented operational life of the solar site is proposed to be extended to a 40yr operational period through a S36C application, Ref no:
ECU00003342 which is with the ECU for determination.
SPR have been drafting material to support the discharge of pre-commencement planning conditions. Construction is programmed to commence in 2023.
Battery Energy Storage System
A Section 36C application to install a Battery Energy Storage System was made in November 2021, this application is to facilitate the storing of energy up to 49.9MW capacity. The storage facility will have an operational lifespan of 40 years.
Design Considerations & Evolution
Although the solar site design has been consented, SPR are currently reviewing the scheme design to ascertain whether any amendments are required.
Community Consultation
Early consultation is key to the way SPR develops projects and ensure that local communities and stakeholders are given the opportunity to provide feedback throughout the various stages.
As we progress through the post-consent stage, SPR is keen that you can continue to find out more about the project and how it is progressing. You can contact the project team on the project mailbox address noted in the "Contact" section below.
Project Documents
Please click on the links below to view the Milltown planning documents.
Original Application - www.energyconsents.scot/ApplicationDetails.aspx?cr=ECU00000452
S36c to extend operational life - www.energyconsents.scot/ApplicationDetails.aspx?cr=ECU00003342
Contact
The Project Team can be contacted directly by email.-Link email to: SPRSolar@scottishpower.com