HUNDREDS of single wind farm turbine applications are being lodged in Scotland in a “feeding frenzy” for subsidies, which are at risk of escaping proper scrutiny in the planning system, experts have warned.
Councils across the country have been inundated with applications for single turbines up to 80 metres tall, which qualify for government subsidies that can net landowners profits of about £20,000 a year.
Farmers across Scotland are being approached by development companies who help install the turbine and deal with the planning process in return for a share of the subsidies.
However, experts have warned that these applications do not require the same level of scrutiny by local authorities as larger developments, with no need for detailed environmental impact assessments.
But when large numbers of applications are lodged for sites close together, the impact can be the same as a large wind farm.
The renewable industry: Apply for a subsidy to become eligible for further subsidies.