Glenskinnan Renewable Energy Park: The Proposal

The proposed Glenskinnan Renewable Energy Park on Kerloch Hill, near Strachan and Banchory, threatens our beautiful local environment. Developer Galileo Empower plans to erect 14 wind turbines towering up to 220m high, the tallest in the UK, along with a large solar array of up to 20MW and a battery storage facility of up to 30MW. The development would extend across more than 2500 acres of Royal Deeside.

This project, which would be accompanied by extensive roadworks and power distribution infrastructure, has raised strong objections from communities across Feughside and surrounding districts. Wind generation capacity in North East Scotland already significantly exceeds local demand and export capability, meaning the proposed Glenskinnan Renewable Energy Park is unnecessary and offers negligible benefit to the local community. In contrast, it poses substantial long-term environmental and social harm, including:

Detrimental impacts on Kerloch Hill, which is widely used by local groups for walking, ornithology, nature conservation and cycling
Risk of contamination to the River Dee and the River Feugh
Adverse effects on Knockburn Loch and the popular outdoor events it hosts
Negative impacts on tourism in Strachan, Banchory and Royal Deeside
Significant visual intrusion for local residents and the nuisance of audible and low-frequency noise, which has been linked to potential health concerns

These impacts would be compounded by prolonged disruption to the wider community during construction, including intrusive heavy goods vehicle movements and traffic restrictions.

What is Save Kerloch?

The Glenskinnan Working Group, Save Kerloch, was set up following feedback from the local community after an initial consultation event held by Galileo in Strachan Village Hall in March 2025. More than 88% of those surveyed at the event objected to the proposed development.

The Group’s mandate is to raise awareness of the project and to act as a focal point for communities and local interest groups to object to the Galileo development. However, we cannot do this alone and your help and support is critical if we are to preserve our beautiful surroundings and this popular natural amenity.

Provisional Galileo/Empower timeline, with our Objection Window

What Can You Do?

Today - Stay informed and spread the word across your community

Later in 2026 - Object to the Development

Send an objection to Aberdeenshire Community Council (with copies to local MSPs and MPs) but only after the Galileo application has been formally submitted (anticipated sometime 2026). Check “Save Kerloch” Facebook & website for key updates. We will have links to make objecting easy.

Participate in future consultation events

Watch for announcements of future public consultation dates, and help spread the word among friends and neighbours. Community participation is essential!