Scotland's green energy strategy took another step forward today with approval for two wind farms capable of generating electricity for 117,000 homes.

The 60 turbine, 180 Megawatt (MW) Arecleoch wind farm near Barrhill in South Ayrshire - set to be Scotland's fourth largest - will generate enough electricity for 76,000 homes.

The 28 turbine, 84 MW Mark Hill wind farm in South Ayrshire will generate electricity for 41,000 homes.

These projects will make a significant contribution to the Scottish Government's target of 31% of electricity from renewables by 2011.

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Energy Minister Jim Mather said: "Today's approval for two more wind farms is a significant step in our drive to turn Scotland into the green energy capital of Europe.

"Scotland has a vast array of potentially cheap, renewable energy sources, from our waters, our waves and our wind. And we are turning that potential into a reality with a progressive and distinct approach to make renewables a driver of sustainable economic growth.

"Our ambitious renewables targets set the right strategy for Scotland, but we can't stop here. We are committed to meeting the EU target of 20 per cent of all energy demand coming from renewables by 2020. Coupled with the opportunities from the need to tackle climate change, we are investing in making Scotland the natural home for a thriving and diverse renewables industry."

The Scottish Government has set a target to produce 31% of electricity demand from renewable sources by 2011, and 50% by 2020.

(GK/JM)