By ESS news
SSE Renewables has announced plans for a new pumped storage hydropower project at Loch Fearna in Scotland’s Great Glen, in a 50:50 development joint venture with a consortium led by UK-based hydropower project development specialist Gilkes Energy.
The 1.8 GW/37 GWh Fearna Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) project has already secured a grid connection offer totaling 1,795 MW. The project aims to develop tunnels and a new power station linking SSE Renewables’ existing reservoir at Loch Quoich to an upper reservoir at Loch Fearna.
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A request for scoping advice for the project is currently before Scottish Government ministers and consultation with local communities and organizations has already begun. Proponents of the project expect the development to reach commercial activity in the mid-2030s, subject to a final investment decision.
Earlier this year, the UK government consulted on their decision to implement a cap and floor investment framework for long-term electricity storage, including hydropower stations. The outcome of the consultation is expected by the end of 2024, with the first project application window potentially opening in 2025.
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