2 GW Loch Ness pumped storage hydro project proposed for Scotland
Glen Earrach Energy Limited (GEE) has unveiled ambitious plans to develop a 2 GW pumped storage hydro (PSH) facility at the Balmacaan Estate in Scotland.
According to their announcement, PSH is recognized as the most cost-effective method for long-duration electricity storage. GEE’s proposed plant will have the capacity to generate up to 30 GWh of electricity, supplying clean and dependable power to millions of households. This project is expected to significantly advance efforts towards achieving net zero emissions while also helping to lower energy costs.
The development represents an investment exceeding £2 billion (approximately US$2.5 billion) and is anticipated to create at least 600 on-site construction jobs over six years. Additionally, the project will stimulate the local economy by generating thousands of supply chain jobs. GEE projects that their initiative will cut the carbon footprint of the energy grid by 10% and save £2 billion in electricity grid operational costs.
To advance the project, GEE is collaborating with a consortium of advisors and specialists, including AECOM, Alpiq, Frontier Economics, and LCP-Delta. They have recently submitted a scoping request to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit and have started engaging with local communities, businesses, and governmental bodies to gather feedback on integrating the project with the surrounding environment and community.
The project will take advantage of the unique geography of Loch Ness, utilizing a vertical drop of over 480 meters between the upper and lower reservoirs to maximize efficiency.
