Exploratory work at Loch Lochy in the Scottish Highlands has begun for what would be the first large-scale hydropower project in the UK in 30 years.

SSE Renewables received planning consent by the Scottish Government for the Coire Glas project in October 2020 and it is expected to be capable of providing 1.5GW of power and also have the capacity for 30GWh of pumped storage. Which is the equivalent of powering three million homes for 24 hours.

A dam will be built at Loch a’Choire Glas creating a new reservoir flowing to Loch Lochy 500m below. Water will then be pumped back up to the reservoir at the higher elevation.

The exploratory works will begin with the construction of a 4m wide and 1km long tunnel into a hillside to reach the proposed location for the underground powerhouse complex.

SSE Renewables Coire Glas project director Ian Innes said, “Coire Glas is one of the most significant engineering projects to take place in the UK for decades. The commencement of these exploratory works is a great milestone for everyone on the Coire Glas Project Team and at SSE Renewables.”