Delivering Sustainable Innovation for a Net-Zero Future

About the project

Glen Earrach Energy, which means "Valley of Spring" in Gaelic, stands at the forefront of energy innovation. The Pumped Storage Hydro (PSH) project, located at Balmacaan Estate, Scotland, is a critical component for achieving a net-zero grid by 2030.

We’re focused on creating a cleaner future, with a project that can generate up to 30 GWh of clean energy — enough to power a million homes.

At the same time, we’re committed to protecting the natural beauty of the area and ensuring that our work benefits both the environment and the local community.

Facts at a glance

2GW of installed electrical generation capacity
30 GWh of clean energy output
10% reduction in carbon output to the electricity grid
Over £2bn in savings to electricity grid running costs

Energy Security and Economic Growth

The project will significantly contribute towards Scottish energy independence and economic vitality, creating numerous jobs and fostering a robust value chain within the UK.

Environmental Impact

As landowners of the Balmacaan Estate, we are committed to maximising this project’s positive impact, and we’re working to integrate it into the environment and the community.

We are working closely with the world’s best experts including AECOM and Alpiq to design a project that preserves the natural landscape and has minimal visual impact.

Long duration energy storage (LDES) reduces the need for gas-fired power plants by storing excess renewable energy and releasing it during peak demand.

Proven Technology

PSH is a technology that has delivered for over 100 years and is bankable, predictable, with a proven record of environmental partnership. Glen Earrach Energy is at the forefront of sustainable development.

Efficiency

By harnessing the unique geography of the Balmacaan Estate, Glen Earrach Energy will be the most water-efficient Pumped Storage Hydro (PSH) project in the UK.

The 480m / 1,500 ft height difference between the upper and lower reservoirs maximises power generation with minimal impact on Loch Ness. This means that our project will generate more energy using less water.

The project’s central grid proximity to existing wind farms increases the potential efficiency of the project and will play a vital role in unleashing existing renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Distinctive Advantage

Scotland is in a unique position to reap the full spectrum of benefits from the projects. Not only is the project itself but its supply chains rooted in Scotland.

About Pumped Storage Hydro

Pumped Storage Hydro is a sustainable and reliable electricity storage solution, leveraging the gravitational force of water between two reservoirs at different elevations. In times of low demand, excess energy is used to pump water to the higher reservoir, storing energy. When demand peaks, the stored water is released to generate electricity, offering a balanced and responsive energy supply.