In July 2009, Osspower submitted applications for consent to construct and operate four hydro electric stations at Glen Falloch Estate near Crianlarich, with a combined generating capacity of 6.7MW. These are: Allt Fionn (2.1MW); Ben Glas (1.6MW); Derrydarroch (2MW); Upper Falloch (1MW).
The site lies around 5km to the north of Loch Lomond and around 6km southwest of Crianlarich and is entirely within the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
Following consultation, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, as the Planning Authority, raised no objections to the applications subject to a number of conditions.
The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) supported the application subject to the imposition of conditions in order to protect the water environment.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) advised that an assessment was required to be undertaken for the Allt Fionn proposal given its proximity to the Loch Lomond Woods Special Area of Conservation.
Jim Mather, energy minister of Scotland, said: “Scotland has an untapped potential for smaller hydro schemes which can create green energy and tackle climate change – these four schemes are perfect examples of how we can make the best use of our natural resources to create low carbon jobs.
“I also welcome the fact that rental income from the hydro schemes will be re-invested back into the operations of the Glen Falloch Estate.
The Scottish government’s target is to meet 50% of electricity demand from renewables by 2020. There is around 7GW of renewables capacity installed, under construction or consented around Scotland, which is expected to take Scotland beyond the interim target of 31% of Scotland’s electricity demand from renewables by 2011.
