The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has formally objected to the proposed Mid Hill wind farm in the Scottish Borders, citing significant concerns about national security. The MoD claims that the development poses an “unmanageable” risk to the UK’s nuclear test monitoring capabilities and military aviation operations.
According to the application from Invenergy, the largest private renewable energy company in the United States, the wind farm would feature 13 turbines, each reaching heights of up to 200 metres, along with an energy storage facility located south-west of Hawick. The site is situated within the safeguarding zone of the Eskdalemuir seismic monitoring array, which plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.
Concerns Over Nuclear Monitoring and Aviation Safety
In its objection, the MoD emphasized that the Mid Hill wind farm would severely affect the operation of the Eskdalemuir station. This seismic array is part of a global network designed to detect nuclear test activity, and its effectiveness relies on an environment with minimal interference. The MoD noted that the wind farm could generate excessive seismic noise, which would disrupt the ultra-sensitive sensors essential for monitoring.
Additionally, the MoD raised alarms about potential negative impacts on national defence aviation systems. The department warned of “detrimental effects on the performance of radar systems” used for managing air traffic, military training, and air traffic control. The proposed wind farm site overlaps with a tactical training and low-flying area where fixed-wing aircraft commonly operate at low altitudes.
Public sentiment in the Borders reflects frustration regarding the proliferation of renewable energy projects in the region. Sarah St Pierre, a representative of the Borthwickwater Landscape Conservation Group, expressed her concerns about the cumulative impact of these developments. She stated, “This region has been inundated with large-scale wind farm plans. Now we are being asked to sacrifice not only our landscape but a critical part of the international security network that monitors nuclear activity. The Borders has done more than its fair share.”
St Pierre added that the MoD’s objection highlights the lack of remaining seismic capacity for additional turbines and warns that the Mid Hill project would undermine both nuclear monitoring efforts and defence aviation capabilities. She concluded, “At some point, we have to say enough is enough – this is not a suitable location, and these impacts are not trivial.”
Government Response and Next Steps
A spokesperson for the Scottish Government indicated that they could not comment on an active planning application. The wind farm proposal now faces scrutiny as the MoD and Invenergy prepare to respond to the objections raised. The outcome of this application could have significant implications for both the local community and the UK’s national security landscape.
As the debate continues, stakeholders on both sides of the issue await the next steps in the planning process, hoping to find a balance between renewable energy development and critical national security interests.
