Plans have been revealed for yet another windfarm in Powys, with Bute Energy once again behind the proposals.

Between January 25 and March 7, Bute will be running a consultation seeking the views of the public on a proposed renewable energy project made up of 26 turbines, southeast of Machynlleth and south of Llanbrynmair.

Esgair Galed Energy Park, a proposition by Bute Energy, is a project the renewable energy company claims will “deliver significant benefits to the local community”.

The company is already planning projects near Builth and Llandrindod Wells, as well as a 25-turbine site near Cefn Coch which would be accompanied by a major new network of pylons connecting it to the National Grid. Separate plans from EDF Energy for the Garn Fach windfarm near Llanidloes are currently with the Welsh Government.

According to Bute Energy, which has proposed multiple renewable energy projects within Powys over the past 12 months, the site will generate  up to 171 megawatts of clean, renewable energy, enough to power the equivalent of between 113,000 and 179,000 households a year.

In their proposal, a spokesperson for Bute Energy said: “The location has been chosen because of its technical and environmental suitability, optimal wind speeds and there are established wind developments in the area.

“To receive planning permission, we will need to demonstrate that the proposed turbines would meet the national guidelines for noise emissions.

"This also applies to work during the construction phase and noise during this time will be closely managed and mitigated as much as possible.”

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The project is classed as a Development of National Significance, meaning that the application will be made to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales, which will make a recommendation to Welsh Ministers, on whether or not to grant planning permission.

Prior to that, Bute Energy will be carrying out several consultation sessions to gather public opinion, which will reportedly influence the design of the energy park as it develops.

County Times: Proposed site layout for Esgair Galed Energy Park.

A spokesperson for Bute Energy added: “We are keen to hear a wide range of views about the proposed Esgair Galed Energy Park. Our emerging proposals are at an early stage. Your feedback is key and will help develop our plans and shape the design of the Energy Park moving forward.”

Three drop-in sessions are scheduled to be held for residents to express their views on the proposal, meet the project team and ask any questions they may have.

The drop-in sessions will all taking place between 2.30pm and 7pm. The first is on February 19 at Llanbrynmair Community Centre, the next on February 26 at Aberhosan Village Hall and another at Staylittle Village Hall on February 27.

People can also find feedback forms online by visiting the Bute Energy website.