Mar 25 - Daily Record; Glasgow (UK)

Scotland is set to get its first train station run on wind power.

First ScotRail have lodged plans for a turbine on the platformat Leuchars in Fife.

If approved, the 53ft mast would supply all the station's electricity needs.

It would also be connected to the national grid, as it could generate surplus power.

The green scheme is part of First ScotRail's climate change strategy aimed at reducing their carbon footprint.

Transport Scotland are funding the pounds 29,000 project.

Stewart Cahill, of First ScotRail, said that other stations were being looked at.

He added: "We have set ourselves tough targets on the environment and the wind turbine is another demonstration of our commitment to sustainability.

"It would connect to the national grid and it is hoped at times, it will supply the grid as well as the station building."

Ayrshire turbine manufacturers Proven Energy describe their model for Leuchars as "the most robust small-scale wind turbine in the world".

It is like the four 6kw turbines they installed on Eigg earlier this month.

They provided the island with its first mains connection. Until now, most of the homes on Eigg, 10 miles off the west coast of Scotland, relied on generators.

The Leuchars station turbine plan is still to be considered by Fife Council.

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: "It's crucial businesses across Scotland continue to look for innovative and imaginative proposals for energy."

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