And why
By focusing exclusively on development, we deliver high-quality, de-risked projects that our long-term joint venture partners then take forward into construction. We’re driven by a commitment to building a more sustainable future. Each project we develop helps accelerate the transition to clean energy, cuts carbon emissions, and creates lasting value for communities and future generations.
At a glance
So far
"Between us, we’d spent nearly 30 years in renewable energy. Over time, we came to believe that project development works best in an entrepreneurial environment. Big utilities—with all their layers of process and red tape—just aren’t built for that. We also felt that project managers should have real ownership of the projects they lead—not feel like cogs in a corporate machine. That sense of drive is what makes projects happen. We wanted to build a company where that culture came first."
— David Murray, Managing Director
Leaving behind secure jobs was a big step, but we believed in our approach and were ready to take the risk. From day one, our strategy was to work closely with long-term asset owners—companies that would ultimately build and operate the projects. This gave them a role in shaping designs, building lasting relationships with landowners, and providing funding to move projects forward.
Our first partnership was with Falck Renewables (now part of Nadara), a company with a strong UK wind portfolio and ambition to grow. With a team of just five, we aimed to develop 100 MW—but surpassed that in under a year. Planning permissions followed four years later, and our first project became operational three years after that.
By 2014, we had around 300 MW in development. But as UK political support for onshore wind waned, Falck reduced its exposure to new UK projects—prompting us to find a new partner.
That search led us to ESB, the Irish state-owned utility. They brought strong technical capabilities, capital, a presence in Ireland, and a clear ambition to expand in Great Britain. Just as importantly, they saw the value Coriolis could bring.
Our joint venture launched in 2015 with seven projects. Since then, the portfolio has more than doubled in size. Our first project with ESB completed in 2019, and to date, six projects—totalling over 500 MW—have secured planning permission.
Our largest project to date, Chirmorie Wind Farm—with 20 turbines standing 150m tall—is due to begin construction in 2026 and will generate enough electricity to power 67,000 homes. More ESB-backed projects are set to follow from 2027 onwards.
Today, Coriolis Energy has over 1,500 MW either operational or in development, supported by teams across three UK offices. Looking back to 2007, that progress feels remarkable. We’re proud not just of what we’ve built—but of the positive impact we’re making on a cleaner, more sustainable future.
2007 Onwards
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Coriolis Energy formed by part of the former management team of nPower Renewables (then the UK’s largest renewable energy business) Joint venture established with Falck Renewables (now part of Nadara) to identify and develop an initial portfolio of 100MW of new onshore wind farms in the UK.
First four projects identified and development work begun in earnest First employees recruited (most of whom are still with the company)
Glasgow office opened. First planning application submitted (for Spaldington Airfield Wind Farm)
First planning permissions received (for West Browncastle and Spaldington Airfield Wind Farms)
First project developed by Coriolis Energy enters commercial operation (West Browncastle Wind Farm) Planning permission granted for first Farm Turbine (Pittsdown)
New joint venture formed with ESB (the largest electricity utility in Ireland, majority owned by the Irish Government)
Operational capacity for wind farms developed by Coriolis Energy passes 100MW
Development work on first ESB joint venture project completed (Kirk Hill Wind Farm) Coriolis and ESB selected by Natural Resources Wales (a Welsh Government Agency) to develop a project in Y Bryn forest
Coriolis and ESB selected by Forestry and Land Scotland (a Scottish Government Agency) to develop projects in two Scottish forests (details not yet in the public domain) Development portfolio tops 1,000 MW
Joint Venture with ESB expanded with the addition of five new projects identified by Coriolis Energy (not all of which are yet in the public domain)
Harrogate office opened
Planning permission secured for a total of 43 wind turbines across 2 projects (Glendye 120MW and Kirkan 70MW)
Planning permission granted for first energy reserve project (Orrell, 70MW)
Planning permission secured for largest project to date (Garvary, 144MW)
Quick Q&A’s
Read our mini interviews from some of our Coriolis Energy team to see what drives and motivates them.
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