ScotRail has been granted planning permission to install two wind turbines at a West Lothian railway depot.
The 5kW turbines will be up and running at Bathgate depot by early August. It will be the first time that wind turbines have ever been installed at a ScotRail depot.
The project will save almost eight tonnes of CO2 per year, as well as producing approximately 14,000 kWh of electricity – enough to power a small station like Greenfaulds.
The 17.75 and 14.75-metre-high turbines will be sensitively sited away from homes on the south side of the depot, in the car park area.
It is estimated that they will save the rail operator around £4,500 in energy bills every year.
This money will be reinvested in more renewable energy schemes on Scotland’s railways.
ScotRail’s managing director, Steve Montgomery, said: “We are pleased to receive planning approval for these two turbines, which will have a positive impact on the environment and help us save money for use in further exciting eco-friendly projects.”
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "I am encouraged that ScotRail is continuing to install renewable energy across its estate.
“Building on the success of previous investment at other stations and depots, the new wind turbines at the Bathgate depot will help deliver further reductions in carbon emissions.
"This will be another milestone as we work towards improving Scotland's railways' environmental performance."
Montrose station last summer became the first staffed station in Scotland to create its own wind energy.
Media enquiries
ScotRail communications: Laura Cummings / 0141 335 5156 / [email protected]
Notes to Editors
The turbines – part of ScotRail’s renewables portfolio – are funded by the rail operator under a franchise commitment.
Planning approval was granted by West Lothian Council.
ScotRail is working in partnership with Evance renewables company to harness wind power using R9000 small wind turbines.