Glen Earrach Energy

57°16′05″N 4°33′58″W / 57.268°N 4.566°W / 57.268; -4.566

Glen Earrach Energy is a proposed pumped-storage hydroelectricity (PSH) scheme in the Scottish Highlands. If built, the project will be one of the largest pumped-hydro scheme in Scotland, storing 30GWh of energy with a maximum generating capacity of 2.0GW. [1] [2]

Current Status

Public consultations took place in October and November 2024.[3]

The developers plan to soon publish a detailed environmental impact assessment.[1] They aim to start construction in 2026, and hope to deliver first power to the national grid in 2030.[2]

Proposals

The scheme will use Loch Ness as the lower reservoir, and Loch nam Breac Dearga as the upper.[1]

Economics

The scheme will cost in the order of £3 billion.[1]

The economics are favourable because the large height difference between the upper reservoir, at nearly 500m above sea level, and Loch Ness,[1] which is just 16m above sea level, and only 3km distant.

Criticism

The Ness District Salmon Fishery Board has reservations about the impact on water levels in Loch Ness. The Guardian newspaper reports that critics fear the scheme "could significantly affect the [Loch Ness's] delicate ecology, its migrating salmon and trout, its leisure cruising firms and its archaeological sites, including a prehistoric crannog, or human-made island."[1]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f Severin Carrell (12 March 2025). "Balance of power: Loch Ness hydro storage schemes fuel local anxiety". The Guardian. Retrieved 20 April 2025.
  2. ^ a b "Pumped Storage Hydro". PSH Brochure. British Hydropower Association. November 2024. Retrieved 20 April 2025.
  3. ^ "Glen Earrach Pumped Storage Hydro facility consultation". Glen Earrach Energy. 9 Dec 2024. Retrieved 20 April 2025.
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