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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. Our 2GW Pumped Storage Hydro (PSH) project, located at Balmacaan Estate close to Loch Ness, is a critical component for achieving a net-zero energy grid by 2030.
We’re focused on creating a cleaner future, with a project that can generate up to 34 GWh of clean energy — enough to power over a million fully decarbonised 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.
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Facts at a glance
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2GW of installed electrical generation capacity
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34 GWh of clean energy output
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10% reduction in carbon output to the electricity grid
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Over £2.9 billion in savings to electricity grid running costs
Energy Security and Economic Growth
The project will play an important role in delivering 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 proven technology that has delivered for over 100 years and is bankable, predictable, with a proven record of environmental partnership. Aiming to deliver first power by 2030, Glen Earrach Energy is at the forefront of this 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.
About Pumped Storage Hydro
Pumped Storage Hydro is a proven 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.
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