This £16 million development represents a significant investment by npower renewables in clean and sustainable energy sources, and in the Scottish rural economy. Approximately £3.5 million was spent in Scotland during the construction process with the employment of around 45 local construction workers. A further annual income of £140,000 will continue to provide benefit to the local community through business rates, rent and employment of two operations and maintenance staff.

npower renewables has delivered a range of community benefits in association with its operating wind farms. These measures benefit those communities living closest to each wind farm, and have to date included energy efficiency measures, schools education programmes, local event sponsorships, equipment for schools, youth groups and sports clubs, and repair works to village halls and other community buildings.

At Novar Wind Farm, a fund totalling over £17,000 each year is paid to the local Alness, Ardross and Kiltearn Community Councils - this fund increases with inflation and as of 2005 stands at over £20,000 a year. The community fund is generated from the revenue of the wind farm and will continue to be paid throughout the life of the site. The fund is used to assist local community projects in Alness, Ardross and Kiltearn communities. Projects that have benefited to date include, Ross-shire Care Scheme for Handicapped Children, the West End Community Hall, the Millennium Garden Project for Alness Environmental Group and Alness & District Times Community Newspaper.

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