New hydro electric scheme for Scottish Highlands

A new hydro-electric scheme in the Highlands has been given the go-ahead by the Scottish Government.
The 5 Megawatt (MW) development at Loch Eilde Mor, near Kinlochleven, is expected to generate enough renewable energy to power around 2,400 homes.

Approval has also been passed by the Scottish Government for refurbishment of the existing Innerhadden hydro-scheme near Kinloch Rannoch in Perth and Kinross. The installation of two new weirs with self cleaning screens will enable it to maximise its output to 1.4 MW.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said:

"I have carefully considered the application for development at Loch Eilde Mor and this is a good scheme which will provide a new green energy source and sustainable economic benefits – an excellent example of using our natural assets in harmony with the environment.

"The Scottish Government's target is to meet the equivalent of 100 percent of electricity demand from renewables by 2020, and every new hydro-scheme is another step towards realising that goal."