2 new hydro schemes planned for Great Glen

Scottish and Southern Energy has announced that it is planning two new hydro power schemes in the Great Glen. The exact location of the proposed reservoirs and pumping stations remain a secret, however the Company used the official opening by the Queen of the Glendoe hydro scheme to reveal its future plans.

It is thought that the new schemes would be similar to the pumped system that currently operates near Foyers on Loch Ness. This involves two bodies of water, located at different heights. During periods of low demand for power, for example at night, electricity pumps water from the loch to an upper reservoir and this water is then released to create power at times of high demand.

The chief executive of SSE, Ian Marchant, said that the two new pumping stations would produce 10 times the amount of electricity produced by Glendoe. The Company said that it expected to submit planning applications in 2011. There would then be a consultation period for public comment. If permission is granted the schemes are likely to be up and running by 2017.