RWE has begun a pre-application consultation on proposals to build a 30MW wind farm at Pen March, Wales.
Situated above the A4565 Heads of the Valleys road near Merthyr Tydfil, the proposed wind farm would consist of up to six turbines with a capacity of 30MW and a maximum tip height of 180m. If approved, Pen March Wind Farm would be capable of generating power for 24,500 homes.
RWE said the project will contribute to the Welsh Government’s climate target of reaching net zero by 2050.
Jenny Cowley, RWE’s project manager, described Pen March as “an excellent site for a renewable energy project, which will help tackle climate change, secure energy supplies and stabilise prices”, in an apparent reference to the current energy crisis that has been caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The largest power generator in Wales, RWE is also conducting discussions around the potential for shared ownership on the project with Caerphilly and Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Councils. A survey conducted between July and August this year on behalf of RenewableUK reported that 82% of Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency residents support onshore wind farms.
Pre-application consultation will consist of a combination of online and in-person events, running from 3 November 2022 until 15 December 2022. Once consultation feedback is processed, planning applications are due to be submitted early next year.
As Pen March is situated on Gelligaer and Merthyr Common, a separate application to develop on common land is also being made. If planning consent is granted to the project by the Welsh Government, construction could take place in 2025 and the project could be operational in 2026, RWE said.
This announcement comes soon after The Welsh Government revealed plans to establish a publicly owned renewable energy developer to decarbonise their energy system.
