OREANDA-NEWS. SSE’s Slieve Divena II Wind Farm, near Ballygawley, Co. Tyrone, has reached a major project milestone, with the first turbine base now fully constructed on site.

When completed, the wind farm will consist of eight wind turbines generating 18.8MW of green energy, enough to power around 16,500 homes* in the area. The renewable energy produced at Slieve Divena II will also help to offset approximately 24,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions every year from fossil fuel generation.

The lead contractor for the project, Enercon, has been working on the site since May 2016. This work includes the preparation and installation of the turbines bases, which are constructed from approximately 450m3 of concrete.

With the first turbine base now constructed, the team can expect the delivery of turbine components from early October, with the wind farm due to be fully operational by spring 2017.

A number of those working on the project team live within 10 miles of the site, while a number of local goods and services are being used during the construction phase. The wind farm will also contribute to the local community throughout its lifetime through landowner leases, commercial rates and the annual SSE Airtricity Community and Regional Funds.

Speaking at the completion of the first turbine base, Bryan O’Connor, SSE’s Project Manager for Slieve Divena II, said:

“The completion of the first turbine base is an important milestone for any wind farm project, and we are delighted to reach this stage at Slieve Divena II. Work will continue to ensure that the seven remaining bases are completed and ready for the turbine delivery programme, which is due to commence in the next few weeks.