RJ McLeod has officially begun construction works at the site of £155million Mill Rig Wind Farm in South Lanarkshire, a major milestone for onshore wind set to power approximately 45,000 homes annually.

Developed by UK renewables specialist OnPath Energy, the 33.4 MW onshore wind project is expected to be fully operational in 2026.

Construction is now underway, with essential infrastructure work, including the development of access roads, substation foundations, and broader site preparation, progressing at pace. The wind farm will incorporate some of the UK's most advanced turbines, designed to maximise energy generation and efficiency.

Over the coming months, construction teams will focus on preparing crane pads and laying the vital turbine foundations. The first turbine components are anticipated to arrive on-site in Autumn 2025, with their installation and subsequent commissioning scheduled for early 2026.

Alan Wells, Project Manager at OnPath Energy, described the start of work as a significant achievement. "Breaking ground on Mill Rig is a huge milestone for OnPath Energy and a major step forward in delivering this strategically important renewable energy project," he said.

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"The start of construction marks the culmination of extensive planning, environmental assessments, and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure the project is developed responsibly and builds community value for local people and businesses."

Beyond delivering clean electricity, Mill Rig Wind Farm is poised to provide long-term economic benefits for the local community and Scotland's wider renewable energy sector. Through OnPath Energy's 'OnPath Together' approach, the project is expected to directly support around 300 jobs during construction, with many more generated indirectly through the broader supply chain. The Hamilton-based firm has committed to prioritising local contractors and businesses, with an impressive £91 million invested within a 60km radius of the site.

Over its lifetime, Mill Rig Wind Farm is also set to deliver a £5 million community fund, which will support local groups and environmental projects situated within a 10km radius of the site. Furthermore, South Lanarkshire Council is projected to receive approximately £18 million in business rates from the development.

Locran Hayes, Contracts Manager at RJ McLeod, the appointed contractor, added: "We're very pleased to be awarded the contract to construct Mill Rig Wind Farm. This is our fourth project with the OnPath team who recognise the skills and experience of our staff and operatives, as well as our track record of using local resources and services. We look forward to jointly delivering this important energy asset."

Mill Rig Wind Farm represents the latest in a series of landmark renewable energy projects delivered by OnPath Energy, which recently completed the Kype Muir Extension Wind Farm, notable for featuring the UK's first 200-metre tip height turbines. With a growing portfolio, OnPath Energy currently operates 12 onshore wind farms across the UK and has secured planning permission for 14.