LOCATION:
The Llyncelyn Wind Farm project, located on a hillside between Ynysybwl and Porth in South Wales, involved the construction of a two turbine renewable energy facility. Designed to generate up to 5.5MW of clean electricity, enough to power approximately 5,500 homes, the project contributes to the UK’s renewable energy targets and local grid resilience.
The scope of works included:
- Construction of 2.5 km of new access track
- Installation of two 35x45m crane pads and turnaround areas
- Creation of a new site entrance, drainage systems, and offsite road improvements
- Delivery and installation of Vensys V115 turbines with 67m hub height
- Coordination of abnormal load deliveries, including 57.5m long turbine blades and cranage equipment
- Development of an educational outreach programme involving over 100 students from local primary schools
Challenges
- Remote site access: The hillside location required extensive access infrastructure and careful planning for heavy equipment delivery.
- Abnormal load transport: Navigating narrow village roads and the busy Pontypridd gyratory roundabout required traffic orders and police escorts.
- Community engagement: Ensuring the project delivered social value and educational benefits to the local community.
Solution
A collaborative approach enabled the successful delivery of turbine components to the remote site, with traffic management strategies including off-peak transport and police outriders. The project team also developed a bespoke educational initiative to engage local schoolchildren with renewable energy concepts, making the project both technically and socially impactful.
Outcome
The Llyncelyn Wind Farm now contributes 5.5MW of clean energy to the local grid, supporting approximately 5,500 homes.
The project not only overcame significant logistical challenges but also delivered lasting social value through its educational outreach, reinforcing the importance of community-focused infrastructure development.
