A £125 million wind farm, expected to produce enough green energy to power over 65,000 homes, has been opened by Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.
SSE Renewable’s Slieve Kirk Wind Park near Limavady is the largest in the North.
Mr McGuinness said the building of the wind farm not only contributed to the North’s renewable energy target but also delivered economic benefits for local companies and supported local jobs.
He added: “SSE has made an important contribution to the North West by investing £36 million in the local community and businesses. The company has made a commitment to future community investment throughout the lifetime of the wind farm.
“This commitment by SSE demonstrates the real economic impact from renewable energy and reinforces the value of our green economy.”
Following the opening, Mr McGuinness met some of the 276 workers who helped build the development as well as representatives from some of the local supply chain businesses at a local economic benefit showcase.
Paul Cooley, general manager Ireland of SSE Renewables, said the firm believed “passionately” in doing more to support the local communities in which it operated.
He added: “Through the development of Slieve Kirk Wind Park we have been able to demonstrate this commitment to our communities by ensuring that local workers and the local supply chain can reap the benefit of this wind farm, not just during construction but also through to operation.
“That’s why we’re proud to have been able to invest £36 million into local businesses through the construction of this wind farm, providing real economic support where and when it’s needed during these challenging times.
Mr Cooley said the company would continue to support the community in Derry for the 25 year lifetime of the wind farm through community payments totalling £18.5million, bringing the local investment to £55million.
He concluded: “In this way, we’re leading the renewable energy industry and doing more to demonstrate the value that green energy can deliver in Northern Ireland.”
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