Feedback

Questions have been received on a number of aspects of the Proposed Development. Our feedback on key themes is summarised below.

Q: Is the development big enough?

The design of the scheme is as efficient as we can make it with the site that we have. Battery storage technology means it would be tricky to increase the capacity further at this stage.

Q: What are the benefits to the community?

Battery Energy Storage Systems are part of the transition to Net Zero as they can reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources. They also provide an element of energy security, as the system will aid the Strichen Grid Supply Point and store back-up energy that could be used in the event of a loss of power.

We received several enquiries regarding potential community benefits from the project. Since the proposed battery storage system stores surplus electricity from the distribution network during periods of excess generation, but does not generate electricity itself, this project will not provide direct funding. However, Muirden Energy is pleased to offer community benefit funding through our existing portfolio of generation projects, supporting various local community initiatives and needs. For more information, please contact joy.wilde@duncanfarms.co.uk. 

Q: What about the risk of fire?

Battery storage technology is developing every day, including the safety precautions built in. Each battery unit contains its own fire suppression system to control any fires at the source, and the batteries are sited far enough apart to prevent the spread of any blaze between units should there be a fire. This minimises the impact that a fire would have on the development and surrounding areas.

To provide extra assurance, an outline battery safety management plan has been prepared and will be submitted as part of the application

Q: How visible is the development?.

No element of the development sits more than 3.5m tall. The tallest elements are the substation building which sits at 3.5m and the fence (at 3m) which acts as a noise barrier and security around the development. There will be planting around this to further screen any visible areas, which will provide habitats for wildlife.

Q: Is this going to impact access to recreational routes?

There will be no impact as a result of this development on the Buchan and Formartine way.

Q: Will further information be provided about the impacts of this development?

Absolutely. The purpose of the Pre-Application Consultation is to allow members of the public to understand the proposals and share any concerns they have. We have shared the current assessments being undertaken to demonstrate how we are assessinbg the impact of the Proposed Development on key things, like landscape and ecology. These reports will be published as part of the application and any reelvant concerns can be addressed within these.