SSE Renewables has published a report claiming that its four onshore wind projects at Sutherland in the Scottish Highlands will contribute £ 485million to the UK economy over their lifetimes.

Three of the projects, the 38 MW Achany, 71.75 MW Gordonbush and 67.75 MW Strathy North are operational, the fourth, the 38 MW Gordonbush extension, currently under construction.

Some £ 327million will remain in Scotland, with the Highlands benefiting from £ 131million throughout the development, construction and operational lifespan of the projects, according to SSE.

The report, titled Providing Investments, Supporting Jobs – Understanding the Socio-Economic Value of SSE Renewables Projects in Sutherland, was produced by economic consultancy firm BiGGAR Economics.

The impacts of community charitable funds from the four wind farms were also analyzed, which the report says have already made £ 6.9million of direct investment available to the communities of Sutherland, with a total of 23, £ 1million expected over their lifetime.

Managing Director of SSE Renewables, Jim Smith said, “With the help of BiGGAR Economics, we have quantified some of our socio-economic impacts and can see the magnitude of the economic contribution of our onshore wind developments in Sutherland.

“Millions of pounds and hundreds of jobs have been supported and retained in local, regional and national economies and most importantly, the benefits will continue throughout the operational life of the projects.

“Through our direct actions and those of our supply chain, we are creating local jobs and making a positive contribution to Scottish and UK GDP.

“SSE Renewables is one of those Highland communities for the long haul and this report sets out our ongoing commitment to them: to share the values ​​we have created.”