Cubico Sustainable Investments has submitted plans to build England’s largest-ever onshore wind farm to power over 100,000 homes in North West England.
Called Scout Moor II, the 100-megawatt project is expected to be operational by 2030 and could power 10% of Greater Manchester’s domestic energy needs, according to Cubico.
If approved, it will be the first major onshore project since the Conservatives scrapped subsidies as part of a 2015 manifesto pledge.
Labour lifted the de facto ban in July, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves calling out the Tories’ “absurd” policy.
Scout Moor II will be located alongside the existing Scout Moor wind farm, spanning the areas of Edenfield, Rawtenstall, and Rochdale.
Cubico believes the project could bring around £200 million in economic benefits and create hundreds of skilled green jobs over its lifecycle.
Chief executive David Swindin said: “Our proposal for Scout Moor II reflects our strong confidence in the UK renewables sector and Britain’s potential to become a global clean energy powerhouse.
“We’re encouraged by the government’s vision to accelerate the build out of renewable energy infrastructure across the country, and we are committed to delivering projects that decarbonise our power system, enhance energy security, and benefit local communities.”
The project is subject to planning approval.