Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) is inviting interested parties to help develop the potential for run-of-river hydro-electric schemes at locations across the country and to come forward with proposals for development. The plans are underway to develop schemes that can generate additional 17 megawatt (MW) and it is estimated that there is further potential of at least 50 MW which is enough to power 40,000 homes.
Existing small-scale hydro developments on the national forest estate, such as at Braevallich near Loch Awe, Garbhaig at Loch Maree and Glenskiagh near Garve, can generate 11.9 MW of power.
Environment Minister, Roseanna Cunningham, announced the move at the opening of RWE npower renewables new hydro-scheme at Inverlael.
Ms Cunningham said: “Tackling the impact of climate change is a number one priority for everyone – and that is why the Scottish Government has committed to 50% of Scotland’s electricity being generated from renewable sources by 2020.
“This is an ambitious but achievable target and working towards it will not only help us to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create clean energy, but will also generate employment and wealth for local communities – both in the long and short term.
“Small scale hydro schemes make an important contribution to our renewable energy capacity and this one at Inverlael, built on the national forest estate, is a good example of how the private sector and Scottish Government can work together to take Scotland towards a greener future.
“But the national forest estate has more to contribute towards realising our commitment to renewable energy and the Commission is pleased to announce today that it is inviting interested parties to come forward with proposals and suggestions for more small scale hydro schemes on the national forest estate.”
As well as looking for commercial partners, the Commission will continue to welcome approaches from communities with an interest in developing local hydro schemes. These will be considered under existing arrangements, which include the possibility of acquiring or leasing suitable sites under the National Forest Land Scheme.
Mary Drury, RWE npower renewables project manager, said: “Inverlael is a good example of how the Forestry Commission – as custodians of Scotland’s forestry resource – and we as a leading operator of small hydro schemes in Scotland, can work together to realise good renewable energy projects for Scotland.
“Our ongoing development programme continues to build on these achievements and we hope to be part of the effort to release the remaining hydro potential on the national forest estate.”