Approval for the Fallago Rig wind farm in the Scottish Borders, which can power 66,000 homes with green energy - more houses than the Borders, has been granted.

Energy Minister Jim Mather said the 48 turbines have a generating capacity of up to 144 megawatts (MW) and will play a 'vital role in Scotland meeting its world leading climate change targets'. Developers, North British Wind Power Limited gained approval of the site following a rigorous consultation process.

Mr Mather said: "The Fallago Rig site in construction is expected to create around 600 jobs and will represent a significant boost to the local economy. Once up and running the wind farm is expected achieve carbon saving of thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. The local community are represented through the Tweed Forum, and a Fallago Rig Environmental Fund has been set up which will provide 240,000 pounds each year of operation for local environmental improvements and sustainable development projects.

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"In consenting this application I have put in place a series of conditions to protect the outstanding natural habitats and landscapes and minimise disturbance to communities. It's encouraging to see constructive dialogue from all parties concerned and I am confident that Fallago Rig will be a centrepiece of Scotland's renewables legacy.

"I am delighted the result has seen co-operation with all concerned, and I look forward to seeing it become a reality."

The Scottish Government's target is to meet 80 per cent of electricity demand from renewables by 2020. In 2008, 22 per cent of electricity demand came from renewables.

There is over 7 Gigawatts (GW) of renewables capacity installed, under construction or consented around Scotland, which will take Scotland beyond the interim target of 31 per cent of Scotland's electricity demand from renewables by 2011.

The Scottish Government's Energy Consents and Deployment Unit is currently processing 41 applications for energy projects across, hydro, on shore wind, biomass and clean technologies.

The Scottish Government has already determined 43 energy applications, including approval for 36 renewable and two non-renewable projects since May 2007.

(GK/KMcA)