Scotland's hydro-electric potential "double" previous estimate

Published on Thursday 21 January 2010 17:09

SCOTLAND'S hyrdro-electric potential is almost double what was previously thought according to a Scottish Government report.

• The new 150 million hydro electric scheme at Glendoe

The study states there could be 1.2 gigawatts of potential new hydro capacity in more than 7,000 schemes across Scotland.

A previous survey carried out two years ago estimated the amount to be 657 Megawatts (MW).

The report, entitled Employment Potential of Scotland's Hydro Resource, took into account micro-hydro schemes under 100 kilowatts (kW) and has factored in payments to supply electricity to the grid.

Energy Minister Jim Mather said: "There is a clear, untapped potential for smaller, community hydro schemes which can create green energy and tackle climate change.

"While large-scale renewable energy development is helping drive economic recovery, there could also be substantial economic and social benefit from micro-hydro schemes.

"Today's report identifies the welcome potential for hundreds of new jobs in hydro power in manufacturing, installation and distribution."

The Government has also published a policy statement on its support for hydro while protecting the water environment.

Mr Mather said the Scottish Environment Protection Agency is developing guidance to help the sector prevent any "adverse impact" on the water environment.

He added: "While every new scheme must be assessed on its own merits, if we can tap into new hydro power we can tackle climate change and continue to stimulate sustainable economic growth."

A 100 kilowatt scheme operating with an average annual output would generate enough electricity to power over 50 homes every year.

The increase in site numbers compared to the 2008 study is largely in the sub-100 kilo watt range due to the favourable tariff for micro-hydro generation.