The Dundonald Wind Turbine in Cardenden was launched by the Ore Valley Group, which is led by the Association.

It is a project which has been ongoing for four years, but after reaching financial close in November last year, it has been full steam ahead, with the construction phase being completed over the Christmas period.

The final step was connecting the turbine to the grid, enabling it to start producing energy.

The turbine will benefit the local community, not only by providing clean, green energy but also through funds raised through profits. Ore Valley intends to use at least 50% of the profits to provide support for the community through grants and investments for local projects and enterprises.

Andrew Saunders, CEO of the Ore Valley Group, said: “The commencement of electricity generation from our wind turbine is an exciting moment in what has been a long and eventful journey. We look forward to continuing to generate renewable energy and utilising the income generated, to enhance community initiatives and support the development of sustainable social enterprise in the area.”

The wind turbine, which is financed by Cardenden Heat and Power (CHAP), the European Energy Efficiency Fund (eeef) and the Renewable Energy Investment Fund (REIF) delivered by Scottish Investment Bank, will have guaranteed funding for 20 years by Ofgem who will be providing a “Feed In Tariff” which is also known as “Clean Energy Cashback”.