PLANS for a major renewable energy project in Bridgend County Borough are set to be discussed in the coming months, with proposals launched for what is being called the Bridgend Energy Hub.
The proposals put forward by Bridgend-based renewable infrastructure company CENIN, could see the creation of a number of renewable energy sites spread across the county borough, with the aim of helping Bridgend and Wales to reach net zero targets.
If given the go-ahead it could see the creation of a 12-turbine wind farm named Mynydd Y Gaer based on a site to the north of Heol Y Cyw and to the south east of Blackmill, with the ability to supply the total power needs for 45,000 homes.
There could also be an additional solar farm site named Tyn-y-Waun developed between the villages of Heol Y Cyw and Bryncethin, on land that was previously used for opencast mining.
Plans for this part of the project have already been submitted to the Welsh Government for a decision, with proposals for a site developers say would produce 35-40MW of electricity, the equivalent total power that is required for over 12,500 homes every year.
The final section of the project will include a special employment area adjacent to the M4, along with the junction 36 Transport Hub, which is described as being “a travel centre for future transport needs, shaped by the local community to best deliver for the people of Bridgend.”
The online brochure, which describes the site based off the M4, reads: “It will enable people to change their mode of transport in one strategic location, by providing bus, car parking and charging, with the ability to car share or move to public transport.
“There will be sustainable multi-fuel charging facilities on site for all vehicle types (including EV rapid charging). Giving a choice of how someone travels will bring with it benefits in the flexibility, efficiency and reduction in the cost of travel.”
Martyn Popham the leader director at CENIN said he was excited for the project, which was similar to others the company had developed in Wales. He said: “I am proud of our work at Bridgend Energy Hub which is very exciting. At Parc Stormy we cut carbon emissions by around 200,000 per year, a very meaningful contribution to reducing the overall Welsh contributions.
“CENIN’s work on this project was recognised, with CENIN being awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, the only one in Wales for sustainable development.”
While there has been some concern raised by locals who say there is still a lack of clarity around the current plans, with others opposed to the creation of a wind farm at Mynydd Y Gaer, the company will now be hosting a series of drop-in sessions where people can find out more.
The sessions will be held as follows:
23rd October 2023 | St. Tyfodwg’s Church | 3-6pm
25th October 2023 | Bryncethin Memorial Hall | 3-6pm
20th November 2023 | Blackmill Community Hall | 5-8pm
