IRN-Bru manufacturer AG Barr has unveiled a new wind turbine at its factory at Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire, which will provide up to eight per cent of the electricity used at the site.

The company said that the turbine’s maximum electricity output was equivalent to the power used by 280 homes.

The turbine is more than 70 metres high, making it the tallest landmark at the Cumbernauld plant.

AG Barr noted that the turbine would, as well as producing environmental benefits, also generate an estimated £120,000 for the local community, as part of the 20-year collaboration with wind power developer Farm Energy Partnership.

Andrew Memmott, supply chain director at AG.Barr, said: “Reducing the environmental impact of our operation is always a key priority and we’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint through a number of different activities. The wind turbine is one such activity, which also benefits the local community financially.

“We look forward to a long-term partnership with Farm Energy, and continuing to look at ways in which we can improve our Cumbernauld facility.”

Paul Holmes-Ling, chief executive of Farm Energy Partnership, said: “Farm Energy Partnership owns renewable projects up and down the country, and we are particularly proud of this one as for the first time we can both supply an important local manufacturer with green renewable energy whist at the same time supporting local good causes.”

Other brands produced by AG Barr, which employs more than 1,000 people, include the Barr range of carbonated drinks, Rubicon exotic juice drinks, and Strathmore spring water.