Loch Ness Glen Earrach pumped storage hydro project moves forward as planning application submitted
A planned major hydro scheme using Loch Ness has taken a step forward with the developers submitting a planning application.
Glen Earrach Energy (GEE) says its 2GW pumped storage hydro would be one of the UK’s largest and most efficient energy storage schemes.
Located on the Balmacaan Estate, it would pump water between the world-famous loch and Loch nam Breac Dearga on its northern side.
If given the go-ahead, it could be among five hydro schemes using Loch Ness, prompting concerns regarding the potential cumulative environmental and economic impact.
But the developers says a new independent poll showed a majority of those surveyed supported pumped storage hydro on Loch Ness, but wanted the Scottish planning system to prioritise projects with the biggest community and energy impact.
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The planning application has been submitted under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 amid a drive to generate more green energy and reach net zero emission targets as well as improving energy security and lowering energy costs.
If approved, the project will deliver over £20 million annually over its 125-year life cycle to Highland communities through what would become Scotland’s largest-ever community benefit fund.
According to new polling by Opinium, commissioned by GEE, there is strong support for pumped storage hydro in the region.
GEE says 56 per cent of Highlanders support pumped storage hydro on Loch Ness while 16 per cent oppose it.
The polling, based on a sample of 2099 Scottish adults with fieldwork taking place in February, explored public attitudes toward energy policy in Scotland, including party trust, net zero, and energy costs.
GEE director Roderick Macleod said: “This project is poised to become one of the UK’s largest and most advanced energy storage initiatives, delivering the most substantial community benefit fund ever in Scotland.
“The Highlands deserves the best project, and we remain on track to deliver it, with the first power being produced in 2030.”
“We’ve listened carefully to local views and will keep doing so.
“Now we look forward to working with the Scottish Government, Highland Council and all key stakeholders to deliver this vital project.”
GEE says its project would account for nearly three-quarters of the total pumped storage hydro schemes planned for Loch Ness and two-thirds of its generating capacity, while using only half the water.
It says the site’s unique topography allows for a more efficient design which generates more power and stores more energy than all other Loch Ness projects combined.
GEE said community feedback directly informed the final design with four separate rounds of consultation with local communities before statutory pre-application requirements began.
The process resulted in major design changes to reduce visual impact, reduce transport on the A82, protect views and minimise above-ground infrastructure.
The project is expected to support about 1000 jobs during the peak of construction, create long-term high-quality employment and inject significant local and regional supply chain value into the Highlands economy.
Infrastructure consulting firm AECOM is among the companies involved in the project.
Its chief executive for Europe and India, Richard Whitehead said planning submission was a significant step forward.
“The scale of Glen Earrach has the potential to meaningfully contribute to Scotland’s net zero ambitions, and those of the UK as a whole, while also delivering benefits to both the environment and local communities,” he said.
Find out more about planning applications that affect you at the Public Notice Portal.
