At Lowca the turbines are sited along the 50m high cliff tops above the Irish Sea, ensuring maximum exposure to coastal winds. The area around the wind farm was formerly used for coal mining and clay extraction. To avoid the potential for subsidence from the old mining works beneath the turbines, a concrete mixture was pumped into the ground at two points in the site.

The wind farm took six months to construct and began generating electricity in March 2000. The wind farm can generate enough energy to supply 2500 homes, whilst saving 5220 tonnes of carbon dioxide, approximately 57 tonnes of sulphur dioxide and 19 tonnes of oxides of nitrogen from being emitted annually.

Community Benefits

Askam is situated near the village of Lowca, where we have used our presence to support a number of local organisations and initiatives, including the development of a breakwater, a sailing and fishing club, and a children’s playground.