Berry Burn Community Fund trustees and beneficiaries are celebrating a decade of awards

TRUSTEES and beneficiaries are celebrating a decade of funding for local projects generated by natural energy.

Since becoming operational in 2014, Berry Burn Wind Farm, eight miles south of Forres, has raised more than £2million awarded to clubs, societies, and groups based in Forres, East Nairnshire, Grantown on Spey, Cromdale and Advie, Speyside, Heldon, Findhorn and Kinloss, Finderne and Dyke Landward.

Fund vice chairman Alex Ross confirmed local parent teacher associations, 1st Forres Scout Group and Moray Firth Credit Union are just three of the organisations who have benefitted over the years.

He said: “We’ve come together to celebrate a significant milestone. By investing in local organisations, initiatives, and groups, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of people who live and work in our community.

“I’d particularly like to thank the dedicated team who administer the fund so effectively and give up their time to do so voluntarily.”

Developed and operated by renewable energy firm, Berry Burn’s 29 wind turbines have a total capacity of 66.7MW, generating enough clean electricity to power the equivalent of 48,000 homes.

A celebration was held at Logie Steading to mark 10 years of the Berry Burn Community Fund. Trustees and many of those who have benefitted met to celebrate its impact on local projects and initiatives - which are eligible to apply for £246,965 of funding available every year.

The fund is managed independently of Statkraft, by 11 local volunteers and an administrator who meet three times-a-year to consider funding applications.

So far, a third of the funds awarded have been invested in projects that enhance community outreach provisions, support mental health initiatives, and fund wellness programmes.

Initiatives promoting physical activity, sports events and improving outdoor play services have benefitted from 21 per cent of the funding.

Educational and environmental enhancements have received almost 20 per cent of the total distributed, with the remaining awards focussed on economic development, cultural preservation, and other initiatives, such as upgrading computer equipment.

With 15 years remaining in the fund, over £2.5 million is still available to support local projects and initiatives.

Mr Ross added: “The funding will continue to strengthen the community, promote sustainability and improve the quality of life for residents within our designated area.”

The application deadline for the next round of funding is January 20, with further funding rounds closing on May 12 and September 15.

For more information, visit www.berryburncommunityfund.co.uk.

Statkraft produces hydropower, wind power, solar power, gas-fired power and supplies district heating.

Head of engagement and social value, Alison Hood, said: “We’re proud to be a good neighbour and share the positive impact of our renewable projects with our local community.

“The wide-ranging and diverse range of organisations, projects, and initiatives supported during the last decade show the legacy that renewable projects like Berry Burn Wind Farm can leave.

“With another 15 years still to run, I’m excited to see what’s ahead.”