The construction of a 239MW onshore wind project has started in Scotland.

The Kilgallioch Wind Farm, worth £300 million, is owned by ScottishPower.

It covers an area of 32km2 and is located between the councils of South Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway.

Spanish manufacturer Gamesa will supply 96 turbines, which are expected to generate enough electricity to power 130,000 homes per year.

It is said to be the third largest onshore wind farm in the UK and more than 250 jobs will be created during construction.

Stuart Mason, Construction Director at ScottishPower Renewables said: “Kilgallioch is a major renewable energy development and a significant construction project.  As well as making an important contribution to Scotland’s carbon reduction targets, tens of millions of pounds will go towards supporting community projects in the vicinity of the wind farm.”

The project is scheduled to be completed in 2017.