Kenly Wind Farm

Opened the debate

The University of St Andrews, the oldest university in Scotland and a world leader in education, has pledged to reach net zero emissions by 2035. The university plans to build a wind farm at Kenly which would save 7,500 tonnes of carbon per year, secure future energy pricing, free up funding for teaching and research, and allow the university to become self-sufficient in electrical energy. However, planning permission was initially granted in 2013 with conditions that an agreement could be reached on mitigating interference with RAF Leuchars' radar systems. Despite multiple proposals from St Andrews, meaningful engagement from the MOD has been lacking. The issue highlights a lack of transparency and inconsistency within the system.

Government Response

The Minister thanked Wendy Chamberlain for raising this important issue and acknowledged the concern it presents for her, the University of St Andrews, and her constituents. He noted the impressive measures already taken by the university to achieve net zero emissions and echoed the Government's commitment to reducing carbon emissions through initiatives such as a £120 million project to deliver four solar farms over five to seven years. The Minister emphasised that the MOD must protect air traffic control radar systems, which has led to delays in approving St Andrews' wind farm proposal due to potential interference with RAF Leuchars' radar system. He highlighted ongoing efforts by the RAF and DASA to find technological solutions for mitigating the impact of offshore wind farms on radar systems. The Minister expressed willingness to engage further and facilitate a meeting between St Andrews and his colleagues in the Defence Equipment and Support team to explore possible mitigation schemes.