Six wind turbines could be built if plans are given go-ahead

A six-turbine wind farm could be built near Rhymney, if plans by electricity generator RWE are given the go-ahead.

A pre-application consultation is currently running until December 15, with events being held at Dowlais and Rhymney.

RWE hopes to generate enough power for 24,500 homes at a site located above the Heads of the Valleys road.

The company is also in discussions with Caerphilly and Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Councils on the potential for shared ownership on the project.

Jenny Cowley, RWE’s project manager said: “Since 2019, we’ve been working hard developing the Pen March Wind Farm project.

“We’ve carried out assessments on site, held discussions with local stakeholders, conducted an informal public consultation and gathered a huge amount of valuable information.

“We believe that this is an excellent site for a renewable energy project, which will help tackle climate change, secure energy supplies, and stabilise prices.”

RWE will consider feedback and submit its planning applications early next year. A decision from Welsh Government expected in 2024. If the project gains planning consent, construction could take place in 2025, with the site being operational in 2026.

As the wind farm is deemed a ‘Development of National Significance’, the Welsh Government will have the final planning say, and not the council, on whether the project goes ahead.

Consultation events are being held on:

• Wednesday, November 16 between 3pm and 6pm at Idris Davies School, Lower School Hall, Abertysswg Road, Abertysswg, Tredegar, NP22 5XF.

• Wednesday, November 23 between 3pm and 7pm at Ael y Bryn Sports and Community Centre, Aneurin Terrace, Rhymney, NP22 5DR.

• Saturday, November 26, between 10am and 2pm, at Dowlais Community Centre, Station Road, Dowlais, CF48 3LP.

A 14-turbine farm is also being planned near Senghenydd and is being developed by Bute Energy.