Green light for major Isle of Lewis wind farm

The multi-million pound project, proposed by Uisenis Power Limited, a subsidiary of Eurowind Energy (EWE), will comprise up to 25 turbines with a total installed capacity of up to 189 megawatts, enough to power around 165,000 homes annually.

Located within the Eishken Estate on Lewis’s rugged east coast, the wind farm represents a complete redesign of the previously consented but unbuilt Muaitheabhal Wind Farm, optimised for modern turbine technology and enhanced community benefit.

Over its 30-year operational life, the project will deliver a community benefit fund worth around £824,000 per year, amounting to nearly £25 million in total. The scheme also includes paid apprenticeship opportunities, a strong commitment to local procurement, and up to £900,000 earmarked for footpath improvements and wildlife programmes.

“This approval is the final milestone in the planning process,” said Heath Wylie, senior development manager (UK) at Eurowind Energy Ltd. “We’re pleased that ministers have recognised the significant benefits Uisenis Wind Farm will deliver at local, island and national levels.”

Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the wind farm scheduled to become operational by 2030—subject to the successful delivery of the Western Isles HVDC interconnector, which will connect the islands to the Scottish mainland grid.

With planning consent now secured, Uisenis Power Limited will work closely with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, local businesses, and environmental stakeholders to finalise the project’s delivery plan. The developers aim to maximise local supply chain opportunities, ensuring island-based companies play a key role in the construction and maintenance phases.