TROON-BASED Hillhouse Group says the chance to supply key materials for the Mill Rig Wind Farm project demonstrates how our OnPath Together development approach to use local suppliers on our projects enhances the economic benefits that renewable energy projects can deliver for local communities.
Hillhouse provided 3,600m³ of concrete for the foundations of the six turbine wind farm near Darvel in Ayrshire. The concrete mix Hillhouse provided used primary aggregates from its Hillhouse Quarry in Troon and specialist sand from its Garpel Quarry in Muirkirk.
It is estimated that Mill Rig Wind Farm will deliver a £91 million spend within a 60km radius of the site once complete in addition to generating enough electricity for more than 45,000 homes annually and around £5 million in community benefits for local good causes over the lifetime of the project.
Working with regional suppliers is part of our OnPath Together development approach which commits to a local investment of £1 million / MW within a 60km radius of each site, this is a material part of how we tender for large contracts, obliging larger contracts to deliver direct local employment. This ensures that our commitments are embedded throughout the supply chain and deliver real economic benefits to the local economy. Additionally, this strategy means that we selectively work with contractors who align with our values regarding local spend, employment and economic impact.
To date, Mill Rig Wind Farm has delivered in excess of our £1 million / MW commitment with tier one contractors alone. Glasgow-headquartered R J McLeod delivered the balance of plant contract with over 70% of their total spend falling within the 60km radius of the site, well above our target of 65%.
This approach supports the development of resilient supply chains and long-term skills within the communities hosting OnPath’s renewable infrastructure.
Hillhouse Group also works with Zero Waste Scotland to lower its carbon footprint through measures including reintroducing waste products into production, managing water and transport, and reducing wastage by matching products closely to project needs.
Commercial Director, Criag Kirkland at Hillhouse Group said: “By backing developments such as Mill Rig, Hillhouse supports not just Scotland’s energy future but also the communities in which these projects are located.
“This project highlights the crucial role Hillhouse plays as a trusted supplier to major renewable energy projects, combining material quality, logistical capability and operational expertise. OnPath’s commitment to the local supply chain shows how major infrastructure projects deliver tangible benefits for local businesses, local people and the local economy.”
“Working with local suppliers is a commitment we make for all new onshore wind projects. It not only supports regional businesses and jobs but can also help to reduce emissions associated with construction. At Mill Rig, partners such as Hillhouse Group bring both expertise and a shared focus on responsible resource use, which aligns closely with our wider sustainability ambitions and our commitment to creating lasting value in the areas where we operate.”
Robin Winstanley, sustainability and environment director at OnPath Energy
Mill Rig Wind Farm uses six state-of-the-art N163/5.X turbines from the global manufacturer Nordex and features 80m blades, the longest that will have been fitted to turbines in the UK to date.
As well as generating power, Mill Rig will also result in £5 million in community benefits over the next 30 years via a dedicated community fund that will deliver long‑term support for local projects, sustainability initiatives and investment in skills.