Cruachan Hydro Power Growth Welcomed

The potential doubling of Cruachan hydro electric power station output has been welcomed by Scotland’s leading environmental campaign organisation today (Tuesday 11th).

Dr Richard Dixon, Director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said,

“It is very good news that the size of Cruachan is likely to be doubled. Pumped storage power stations are a vital complement to Scotland’s rapidly growing renewable electricity sector.

“This proposal is about Scotland making the best of its natural assets to make our
power system as flexible as possible and to create new jobs.”

The Argyll-based hydro power station is undergoing a two-year feasibility study by Scottish Power before a decision on doubling output is decided.

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. BBC news article on Cruachan hydro power station: http://foe-scotland.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b5ad0d61b2a67d22c6…

2. The 440MW power station at Cruachan, near Oban, is one of only four pump storage hydro plants in the UK and plays a key role in balancing the country’s electricity system. The expansion project could see it generate 1,040MW.

3. Friends of the Earth Scotland is
* Scotland’s leading environmental campaigning organisation
* An independent Scottish charity with a network of thousands of supporters and active local groups across Scotland
* Part of the largest grassroots environmental network in the world, uniting over 2 million supporters, 77 national member groups, and some 5,000 local activist groups.