A Scottish renewables developer has put forward plans for a new wind farm on a former coal mine north east of New Cumnock.
OnPath Energy is inviting the local community to help shape the project, including giving it a name inspired by the area’s mining history.
Originally part of Banks Group, which began coal mining in 1976, OnPath Energy revealed the proposed site is situated on the restored Garleffan and Grievehill open-cast coal mine. The developer plans to host a series of consultations and workshops.
If approved, the project could generate up to 161.5GW/h of electricity per year, while also delivering up to £5,000/MW annually in community funding to support local initiatives.
OnPath is committed to shared community ownership with all its onshore wind projects, providing 1% shared free equity to local communities and a further share at market value.
Ewan Robertson, project manager for the Cumnock and Doon Valley wind farm proposal, said, “This project has the potential to deliver lasting benefits for the local community throughout its operational lifespan which will enhance the overall package of benefits we are committed to delivering from our already consented projects at Lethans and Lethans Extension. Our goal is to go beyond simply building a wind farm, we want to create a project that recognises the rich mining history of the local area and plays a part in the lands transition to being a provider of clean energy.
“To effectively accomplish this, we are actively engaging with local stakeholders to listen to community views, and how we can translate the feedback into making this project a valuable local asset. As we look ahead, our priority is to continue this dialogue and speak with as many people as possible, incorporating both concerns and positive feedback into our proposals before submitting a planning application.”
The proposed wind farm is set to comprise of up to eight turbines, with a maximum tip-height of 250m.
OnPath Energy will hold two rounds of public consultations. The first begins on April 22 in New Cumnock, followed by sessions in Lugar and Logan the next day, and concluding in Netherthird on April 24. A second round, scheduled for October 2025, will present the wind farm proposal incorporating community feedback on the design of the site and how the community benefit and shared ownership could work.
OnPath Energy’s partnerships and community manager Aileen McCreadie said, “Renewable energy projects should be shaped by the people who call these communities home. That’s why we’re fully committed to working hand-in-hand with local residents – a truly collaborative approach we call OnPath Together.
“We know that real engagement goes beyond just listening – it’s about making sure local voices shape the project in a meaningful way, from the very beginning. That’s why we’re inviting the community to play an active role, not just in shaping the plans, but even in naming the project itself.
“To honour the area’s rich heritage, we’ll be working with local primary schools to choose a name that reflects its history and tells a story for generations to come. The final shortlist will be put to a public vote, giving everyone the chance to have their say – both online and at our first consultation event.
“Though our engagement doesn’t stop there. Through creative workshops, we’ll be working with local residents to co-design energy reduction workshops that will support each individual in reducing their energy consumption – helping them to be kinder to their pocket and the planet. Alongside this, we want to hear what people would like to see on the site itself – from accessible pathways that guide visitors through the area’s rich history, to spaces that bring the community together. This is about more than just a renewable energy project – it’s about shaping a future that works for all communities together.”
