Two wind farm developments that will supply green energy to around 43,000 more homes have been approved.

The 29 turbine Berry Burn wind farm, on the Altyre Estate near Forres, will have a capacity of 78 Megawatts (MW).

The six turbine extension to the 20 turbine Millennium wind farm near Fort Augustus will increase the capacity by 15 MW to 65 MW.

Combined, the schemes will employ around 100 people during construction and provide five full time jobs.

Energy Minister Jim Mather said: "I am delighted to approve further investment to develop our vast natural potential, create more jobs and fuel the clean, green energy revolution.

"Renewable energy is a key sector for Scotland and will help drive our economic recovery - new wind farms create jobs and can provide valuable benefits for the communities they serve.

"Our comprehensive climate change laws demand that we continue to support good projects that reduce emissions and help Scotland become a global role model for a sustainable, low carbon economy."

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The Scottish Government's Energy Consents and Deployment Unit is currently processing 34 renewable project applications - 25 wind farms and nine hydro projects.

The Scottish Government has determined 30 energy applications, including approval for 24 renewable and one non-renewable project since May 2007 - more determinations than over the whole of the previous four years, in which 19 projects were determined.

The total installed renewables capacity in Scotland is over 3 Gigawatts (GW). A further 3 GW of renewables capacity has either been consented by the Scottish Government or local authorities, or is currently under construction. Over 3 GW is currently in the planning process.

Scottish Government targets are to meet 50% of electricity demand from renewables by 2020, and an interim target of 31% by 2011.

In September 2004, Catamount Energy and Force 9 Energy applied for consent for the Berry Burn wind farm. Further to issues raised by consultees, an addendum was lodged in September 2006 and a second addendum was lodged in March 2008. The application was subject to statutory consultation. Moray Council, as the relevant planning authority, did not object, subject to conditions. 227 representations were received - 140 objecting to the development and 87 in support.

In January 2009, Millennium Wind Energy Limited applied for consent to add six turbines to the 20 turbine Millennium wind farm, taking installed capacity from 50 MW to 65 MW. Eleven representations were received during the consultation period, nine objected and two supported the development.

(GK/JM)