PEMBROKESHIRE College and Njord Energy have hailed a recent business and skills event for the proposed Rhoscrowther Wind Farm a success.

The event, held earlier this month at the college, attracted around 15 local businesses and speakers, and was promoted by the South Wales Chamber of Commerce.

Speakers at the event included Principal of Pembrokeshire College Sharron Lusher, AM Joyce Watson, and Steven Radford, director of Njord Energy - the company developing Rhoscrowther Wind Farm.

On offer are potential contracts for builders, contractors, fabricators, landscape workers, site security, local material suppliers, and many other companies within a wide range of disciplines.

A planning application for five 328 foot high wind turbines at Rhoscrowther Wind Farm was refused by county planners in January 2015.

An appeal against refusal is due to start this November.

If consented, the proposed wind farm, near the Valero oil refinery, would have a total installed capacity of up to 12.5 megawatts.

Joyce Watson AM, said: “As a member of the Assembly committees for both business and the environment, I am especially interested where there is overlap. If we want Pembrokeshire to reap the benefits of the emerging green energy sector, we have to build the skills base to support it.”

Steven Radford, Director at Njord Energy said: “If approved, Rhoscrowther Wind Farm represents a capital investment of up to £17 million and I hold a firm belief that suppliers nearest to our projects deserve to have an opportunity to benefit first and foremost.”

Njord Energy has already been in dialogue with local community groups and community councils surrounding the site, to discuss a community benefit of up to £1.56m over the 25 year lifetime of the wind farm.