Since pioneering the Windy Standard 1 project, Bidwells has assisted the client maximise the long-term value of their land by supporting the development of a further 300MW of developments across eight projects on the client portfolio, including the 35MW Windy Standard 2 windfarm in 2014 and the 88MW Windy Standard 3 windfarm currently under construction at Carsphairn.
With the original consent approaching expiry, the landowner identified the opportunity to repower the site. Repowering not only increases output and efficiency, but also strengthens the long-term capital value of the land by ensuring it remains viable and attractive for future renewable investment. This sits alongside wider estate objectives, maintaining a balance between wind energy, commercial forestry and responsible land stewardship. Drawing on our site specific knowledge of the site and experience in renewables gained over the past 30 years, we helped shape a repowering approach that was grounded in what could be delivered, aligned with policy and supported by a strong planning case.
Working alongside the developer, Fred Olsen Renewables, Bidwells steered the repowering application through the consent process, providing clear direction and continuity from an early strategy through to approval. The outcome was Scottish Government consent for the repowering of Windy Standard 1 in August 2025 - placing the project among the first of Scotland’s legacy wind farms to secure repowering permission. It also marked the fourth scheme delivered at Carsphairn, demonstrating a sustained and proven track record of unlocking renewable energy development and revenue growth across the estate.
The approved scheme will see the existing wind farm decommissioned in 2027, removing 36 turbines and replacing them with eight next-generation 6.2MW turbines, reaching up to 200 metres in height. The repowered site will more than double capacity to 49.6MW and extend operational life by 35 years, ensuring the estate continues to play a significant role in Scotland’s renewable energy supply and net zero ambitions.
This consent reinforces the value of repowering in maximising both land use and financial return, unlocking greater generation from proven sites, producing sustainable power for the country and sustainable revenue for the landowner. It is a clear example of how long-term land insight combined with a proactive planning and development strategy, can secure exceptional outcomes for our clients.
