Faulty wind turbines could stay at Kirkheaton

Sep 26 2009 by Vicky Robson, The Journal

EDF Energy is hoping to have the wind farm running at full power by the end of this year.

An inspection by its turbine supplier revealed cracks on the blades on two of the turbines. They were removed as a precaution until replacements could be found. The one unaffected turbine continued to operate as normal.

A spokesman for EDF Energy said that since being commissioned in 2000 until the end of 2007, the wind farm at Kirkheaton generated a total of 36,508 MWh – enough to supply the annual needs of over 860 homes.

He said: “The planning application submitted by EDF Energy Renewables relates to the process of replacing the turbine blades at the site and extending the time allowed for this as the original blade manufacturer is no longer in business and this has delayed the installation process.

“However, EDF Energy has been working with other blade manufacturers and has now sourced and ordered replacement blades.

“It is envisaged that they should be installed towards the end of this year.”

A spokesperson for Northumberland County Council said: “We have received an application to vary a condition of planning permission to permit the retention of non-operational turbines for a further 12 months, and this is currently under consideration.”

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