Local Benefits

Statkraft places a high importance on being a good neighbour. There are many ways in which local communities can benefit from renewable energy projects in their area, and we want to hear your views on how our project can bring new investment to your community.

Community Benefit Fund

We make a commitment to delivering a community benefit fund of £5,000 per MW installed, in line with Scottish Government guidance. 

This could include initiatives such as:

  • Improving local infrastructure such as new walking and cycling routes
  • Upgrading community buildings
  • Supporting local sports groups
  • Environmental enhancements
  • Skills and education programmes

Oliver Forest Wind Farm will contribute to an annual Skills Fund to support children and adults in development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) knowledge and skills who live within the host or adjacent Community Council areas. The fund will be a maximum value of £10,000 (index linked) per year.Creation of a 5 km recreational heritage trail with associated car parking spaces and interpretation boards.

This fund is dedicated to projects that help accelerate the aims of local communities to make a positive difference.

Partnership with Edinburgh Science

Oliver Forest Wind Farm has partnered with Edinburgh Science to sponsor ten STEM workshops at the primary schools closest to the wind farm during the development stage of the development. Edinburgh Science is one of Scotland’s largest outreach charities who aim to contribute to the development of a future generation that is enthusiastic, curious, and well-prepared for challenges and opportunities in STEM fields.

University of Highlands and Islands

Oliver Forest Wind Farm has committed to providing funding for a scholarship at the University of Highlands and Islands (UHI) for a ten-year period from the wind farm becoming operational. This scholarship of £3,000 per annum will support Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) and Construction students through their studies.

Skills Fund

In addition to the Community Benefit Fund and the UHI scholarship Oliver Forest Wind Farm will provide a Skills Fund throughout the operational period of the wind farm. This fund will provide £10,000 per annum to support children and adults living within the host or adjacent community council areas to wind farm to the develop their STEM knowledge and skills. The fund could be used for example for paying course fees, living and travel expenses while attending a remote college, or to assist with childcare for parents returning to education. The fund will also be available to primary and secondary schools which are attended by children from the host or adjacent Community Council areas who wish to apply for STEM workshops, equipment, activities or learning.