Ecological surveys are expected to begin later as part of ongoing research into an onshore wind farm in the south of the Isle of Man.Manx Utilities has employed consultants Wardell Armstrong SLR to carry out several studies into the local wildlife in Earystane and Scard.The project, called Cair Vie, would see five turbines built in the area, which could deliver up to 130 gigawatts of energy per year.Ecologists and surveyors will be conducting studies over the coming months focusing on bats, birds, frogs, long-eared owls, and raptors.Throughout April, May and June, surveys will include monitoring and tracking bat activities and movements in different locations.
The breeding and flight patterns of local bird species, including hen harriers, are to be monitored as part of the research.
MU said surveyors would stand at viewpoints to observe how birds fly in the area to assess any risks wind turbines could pose.Water samples are also to be taken to see if there are frogs in the area.Studies planned for June include observing the breeding and travelling behaviours of hen harriers and raptors.Ecologists will alsouse thermal cameras and listen for territorial male owl calls at dusk to detect breeding owls in the area.The studies were "observation only" and would be "minimally invasive", it added, saying that the findings would be used "to guide the project and minimise any impact on nature".
The wind farm scheme, expected to cost £36m, is part of the government's commitment to decarbonise the island's electricity supply by 2030.The Cair Vie wind farm project on the Isle of Man is an ambitious renewable energy initiative by Manx Utilities, intended to support the island’s commitment to decarbonising its electricity supply by 2030. The project is located in the south of the island, specifically in the areas of Earystane and Scard, and is expected to have a significant impact on local wildlife and the environment.
The Cair Vie project involves the construction of five wind turbines, designed to generate up to 130 gigawatt-hours of renewable energy annually. This energy output would contribute significantly to the island’s electricity needs, helping the Isle of Man reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and support its climate change mitigation goals.As part of the planning and environmental assessment process, MU has engaged consultants Wardell Armstrong SLR to conduct a range ofecological surveys and studies. These surveys will focus on understanding the potential impacts of the wind farm on local wildlife, especially protected species.
The planned surveys will take place over the course of three months (April, May, and June) and will cover a variety of species that could be affected by the construction and operation of the wind farm.Experts will monitor and track bat activities in the area. This includes studying their movements and behaviours to understand if the wind turbines could pose a risk to these nocturnal creatures.The breeding, flight patterns, and movements of various bird species will be studied. This will include monitoring local birds such as hen harriers, a species of particular concern. Surveyors will observe birds from designated viewpoints to see how they fly through the area and assess if wind turbines could present a collision risk.Water samples will be taken from ponds and other water sources in the area to detect the presence of frogs. This will help determine whether the amphibians are in the vicinity and could be impacted by construction activities.
In June, studies will focus on the breeding and movement behaviours of hen harriers and raptors. Ecologists will use thermal cameras and audio monitoring techniques to detect territorial calls from male owls, which will help identify breeding pairs in the area. The surveys are designed to be observational and non-invasive. The consultants aim to gather necessary ecological data without causing significant disturbance to the wildlife.To improve the accuracy of the observations, modern technologies like thermal cameras and audio recording devices will be employed. These will be especially useful for detecting nocturnal species like owls and bats.
The purpose of the ecological surveys is to identify potential risks to local wildlife, especially to vulnerable species, and to ensure that the project is designed in a way that minimizes these impacts. The data collected will guide the development of the wind farm, helping to avoid or mitigate any negative consequences on the surrounding environment.
The findings of these studies will be crucial for informing planning decisions and ensuring compliance with environmental protection regulations. This research aligns with MU’s commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that the wind farm contributes positively to the island’s green energy transition while also preserving its natural biodiversity.
The Cair Vie wind farm is expected to cost £36 million, which will be funded as part of the government’s wider strategy to decarbonize the Isle of Man’s electricity grid.The project is a key part of the island’s efforts to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030. This aligns with global trends towards renewable energy adoption and climate change action, as well as the Isle of Man’s own environmental policy goals.
The success of the Cair Vie project could serve as a model for future renewable energy developments on the island, and potentially in other regions, balancing the need for sustainable energy with the protection of local wildlife.
Madina Mammadova\\EDnews
