When built in 2002, Bowbeat was Scotland's most powerful wind farm, capable of powering over half the households in the Scottish Borders.

The wind farm was officially opened in 2002 by the then Energy Minister, Brian Wilson. Mr Wilson said that Bowbeat would make a vital contribution in helping the Government to meets its target of 10% of electricity being produced from sustainable sources by 2010.

Bowbeat Wind Farm can generate enough energy to supply nearly 18000 homes, displacing 35257 tonnes of carbon dioxide, along with 288 tonnes of sulphur dioxide and 96 tonnes of oxides of nitrogen each year.

The construction of Bowbeat was particularly challenging and took a year to complete. The approach involves several kilometres of reinforced forest track, while the site's steep slopes were close to the limits of capability for the construction vehicles and cranes. However, with an average wind speed of around 9.5 metres per second, it is that same difficult terrain that makes Bowbeat an excellent location for a wind farm.

Furthermore, the experience gained on the project will prove invaluable to the development of equally difficult sites, essential to maximise the potential of Scotland's vast wind resource.