Local construction companies across Perth and Kinross are being actively encouraged to register their interest in the commercial opportunities that would arise should plans for Craighead Wind Farm be approved.

Renewable energy developer Galileo has started to receive expressions of interest and is keen that the process is formalised, yet made as straightforward as possible for local potential suppliers and contractors.

The proposed eight-turbine development, located north of Carnbo in Kinross-shire, is expected to deliver significant commercial benefits to the region, arising out of the construction and operation of the scheme. The wind farm will have an operational life of 40 years.

Analysis suggests an average cost for the wind farm of up to £65.4 million (based on a generating capacity of up to 49.6MW).

It is estimated that throughout the construction and operational phase of the proposed development:

• up to £9.1m is anticipated to be spent within the local economy across the construction and operational phases
• up to 66 jobs will be created across Perth and Kinross
• an estimated £24m in business rates will be contributed to local services over the operational lifetime of the wind farm.

Galileo said it is committed to ensuring that, wherever reasonably practicable, local suppliers and contractors are used in all aspects of wind farm development.

The developer is also working with Perthshire Chamber of Commerce to maximise awareness of the portal and opportunities available in the local supply chain.

A planning application for Craighead Wind Farm was submitted to Perth & Kinross Council in August.

The team behind the proposals, led by Galileo’s senior project manager Jason Morin, is keen that local and regional businesses big and small are in touch with the project team directly and kept up to date with commercial opportunities as they emerge.

The supplier registration portal is now open.

Speaking after the launching the portal, Jason said: “Through our continuing engagement with local communities on this project, we have made it clear that we are keen to ensure that we use local businesses and contractors in all aspects of wind farm development. Hence the opening of this portal to ensure that they can benefit.

“Independent estimates confirm that £33.7m will be spent within the overall Scottish economy during the wind farm’s development and construction, with £9.1m making a direct impact on Perth and Kinross.

“During operation, it has been estimated that up to 66 jobs will be created locally, with £600k per annum generated in business rates. It should be highlighted that these benefits are in addition to a community wealth fund of around £10m, to be used by local communities.”

Vicki Unite, chief executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are incredibly supportive of the opening of the portal, which will allow local businesses the opportunity to register interest and ensure they don’t miss out on any opportunities.

“Renewable energy developments such as this have the potential to deliver considerable investment, creating local jobs, boosting the skills of our current and future workforce and deliver sustainable economic growth.

“We are pleased to note Galileo’s commitment to prioritising the use of local suppliers and contractors in all aspects of the wind farm development. If the development is approved, we look forward to continuing to work with the company to maximise the opportunities available in the local supply chain.”