THE number of wind turbines at a development near Innerwick will push past 100 by early 2026.

Three phases of Crystal Rig, south-west of the village, are already operational.

Now, Fred. Olsen Renewables has announced that it is progressing with the construction of Crystal Rig IV.

The 11-turbine wind farm will have an installed capacity of 49.1MW of renewable energy.

Sofie Jebsen, chief executive officer at Fred. Olsen Renewables, said: “Bringing Crystal Rig IV into construction is a strategic step forward for Fred. Olsen Renewables.

“We are delighted to be celebrating this key milestone. It also demonstrates our continued commitment to Scotland’s renewable ambitions and the wider UK’s net-zero journey.

“Fred. Olsen Renewables are committed to working closely with the local community and stakeholders throughout the construction of Crystal Rig IV, helping to minimise disruption and helping them to maximise the benefits that the project will bring.

“I would like to thank everyone that has contributed to the success of the project so far.”

Consented by the Scottish Government in 2021, the project is on track to commence generation in early 2026.

Crystal Rig IV will also deliver an annual community benefit fund of £240,000.

The project will provide more than £8m to the communities of East Lothian and the Scottish Borders over its lifetime, says the operators.

This will be the first Fred. Olsen Renewables wind farm in Scotland with Vestas turbines.

The original Crystal Rig, which is made up of 25 turbines, has been operational since 2003.

Crystal Rig II received consent two years later and has been operational since 2010. The scheme features 60 wind turbines.

A second extension – Crystal Rig III – was approved to the north of Crystal Rig II.

Operational since 2016, it is home to six turbines, taking the current number to 91, ahead of Crystal Rig IV progressing.