Burgar Hill wind farm
A pioneer of renewable energy in Orkney
Key Facts
Burgar Hill, located in Orkney’s west mainland, played a pivotal role in the development of wind energy in the UK. Established in the 1980s, it was one of the first sites for large-scale wind energy testing. The initial turbines were installed by the Wind Energy Group, a collaboration between British Aerospace, GEC, and Taylor Woodrow, seeking to prove that commercial-scale renewable energy was viable. Following changes in Government policy the programmes were shut down. Over the decades, the site evolved from experimental projects to operational schemes, hosting a variety of turbine designs.
Today, Burgar Hill features six turbines with tip heights ranging from 76 to 116 metres, including models such as the Nordex N60 and the Neg Micon NM92. In 2015, the NM92 turbine became the first in the UK to generate 100 GWh of electricity for the national grid, marking a significant milestone in renewable energy history.
The wind farm sits within the RSPB Birsay Moors reserve, making it a distinctive blend of technology and nature. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy sightings of red-throated divers in spring, as well as hen harriers and short-eared owls throughout the year. The surrounding land offers a striking backdrop to the turbines. On a clear day the EMEC test site at the Fall of Warness can be seen to the east.
Its blend of engineering heritage and natural beauty makes Burgar Hill a memorable stop for anyone interested in Orkney’s energy story.
