Amasus’ 6000-dwt general cargo vessel, Jaguar, recently delivered the first batch of 64-metre long turbine blades to the Associated British Ports’ Port of Ayr on the West Coast of Scotland. The vessel delivered the first turbine blades for the South Kyle wind farm being developed between Delmellington, New Cumnock and Carsphaim. 

Being developed by Vattenfall, South Kyle is a consented onshore wind farm consisting of 50 wind turbines and associated infrastructure. Construction commenced in late 2020 with the focus on felling, civil engineering and infrastructure ahead of turbine installation in 2022. Once completed the project’s installed capacity will be 240MW.

Besides contributing to Vattenfall’s aim of making fossil fuel free living possible within a generation, the South Kyle wind farm also aims to maximise local employment opportunities and provide an economic boost to the economy of South West Scotland. The project is also undertaking over £1million ($1.35 million) of road improvements to facilitate the transport of blades from the harbourside to the development.

From spring, the turbine blades – the first of a number of shipments for the project heading to Port of Ayr – will be transported to South Kyle wind farm for assembly on site.

Chris Ranner, Vattenfall’s turbine package manager for South Kyle wind farm, stressed that Vattenfall is committed to creating a “pipeline of opportunities” for investment in local infrastructure, supply chain and job creation. “Our proposed wind farm developments at Whiteneuk and Quantans Hill will also make a significant contribution in South West Scotland if consented,” he said.

Together with the turbine provider Nordex, Vattenfall has made Port of Ayr as the main entry point for a total of 150 turbine blades destined for the South Kyle wind farm.

Commenting on the development, Stuart Cresswell, Port of Ayr, port manager said, “The Port of Ayr is one of the main west coast import facilities for wind turbines. ABP has a track record in handling wind turbine components and we are delighted to be playing a key role in yet another energy project.”