Four wind turbines could be built near Newbridge and Abercarn

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Four wind turbines measuring up to 145 metres high could be put up near Newbridge and Abercarn.

Renewable energy firm Pennant Walters is behind the plans, which it says could produce up to 20 megawatts (MW) of energy a year – enough to power more than 13,000 homes.

The site of the proposed Trecelyn Wind Farm has been highlighted by the Welsh Government as a suitable area for such a development.

The proposals will play a “significant role in supporting the Welsh Government’s pursuit of 100% renewable energy sources,” according to Meryl Lewis, who is the director of environment and sustainability at Pennant Walters.

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Consultation

Residents living near the proposed wind farm are being asked to give their views on the plans.

A public consultation was held back in March, with Pennant Walters reviewing the feedback it received.

The Hirwaun-based company has now refined its plans, removing one turbine from its original proposals.

The new plans are being put to residents during public exhibitions in Abercarn and Newbridge.

The first exhibition is being held at Llanfach Village Hall in Abercarn, between 2pm and 7pm on Thursday November 30.

The second is being held at Newbridge Memo between 2pm and 7pm on Friday December 1.

Ms Lewis said her company aims to “incorporate community feedback wherever possible”.

She continued: “We are also interested in exploring ways to bring about local benefits to the area. This includes establishing a community benefit fund, promoting shared ownership, and supporting the local supply chain.”

Ms Lewis said the project would “embody a locally-owned ethos” – and spoke of how the company is “actively exploring opportunities for shared ownership and community involvement”.

She added: “As a company, we have a history of establishing community funds for all our wind farm projects, directing investments into the surrounding local communities.

“To date, approximately £5 million has been distributed to qualifying initiatives in South Wales.”

Visit the Trecelyn Wind Farm website to submit comments to the consultation. The deadline for comments is December 22.