The power station, at Carradale on the Kintyre peninsular in Argyll, can generate enough electricity to supply 25,000 homes.

Mr Wilson said the opening of the wind farm marked a significant step towards meeting Scotland's renewable energy targets.

The Kintyre peninsula offers outstanding potential for the development of wind power

Brian Wilson Energy Minister

The farm - which is described as the windiest in the country - has 46 turbines.

The 40 metre high sails are sited on top of the highest hill in Kintyre, 450 metres above sea level.

They will generate 30 megawatts of power for the national grid, an output which would it the most efficient in the United Kingdom.

Launching the �21m Carradale development, Mr Wilson said: "This project shows that the technology is now available to produce not only clean but also efficient electricity from wind power.

"It has long been recognised that the Kintyre peninsula offers outstanding potential for the development of wind power.

New equipment

"I am delighted that a project of such significance has emerged helping Scotland's vast renewables potential to be released."

He said wind power would make a "vital contribution" towards meeting the UK's renewable energy targets.

He said such developments would also create "very significant opportunities" for UK industry, offering companies the chance to compete to supply the new equipment and services.

Brian Wilson opened the development

Carradale is the first of three new developments proposed in Argyll by ScottishPower.

These are expected to create jobs in the area, mainly during the construction phase, with the local turbine factory in Machrihanish tipped to benefit.

The Carradale project also encompasses efforts to help build the threatened black grouse population and to protect a long-established golden eagle territory.

"I am delighted that this project will not only reduce the effects of climate change but also protect our environment through a range of conservation measures," added Mr Wilson.

However, not everyone is happy as critics believe the huge towers are an eyesore which damage the landscape.