Wind turbine blaze sparks probe

Campaigners have called for an investigation after turbines at a windfarm went up in flames.

The fires happened at Arecleoch, a 60- turbine development which opened five years ago near Barrhill, Ay r shi re. Wi tnesses claimed molten metal became detached from the turbines in the incidents.

Arecleoch windfarm is operated by ScottishPower Renewables, who are owned by Spanish utility giants Iberdrola. SPR said there had been faults in the mechanism housing.

Susan Crosthwaite, UK spokeswoman for the European Platform Against Windfarms, and who lives near Arecleoch, said: “We need an investigation and assurances that more wind turbines aren’t surely going to start going up in flames.”

A ScottishPower said: “Together with manufacturers Gamesa we are investigating.”