Loch Ness Hydro Project Faces Strong Opposition from Salmon Board

Proposals for a new pumped storage hydroelectric development on Loch Ness have ignited significant opposition from the local Ness District Salmon Fishery Board (NDSFB). In a formal response to additional information submitted by Glen Earrach Energy (GEE) to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit, the NDSFB has raised concerns about the potential ecological impact of the project.

The NDSFB accuses GEE of using “erroneous and conflicting data” and failing to adequately address the likely adverse effects on the existing ecosystem. NDSFB director Brian Shaw emphasized that the additional information provided by GEE does not alleviate their concerns. “Far from reassuring us, Glen Earrach’s latest Additional Information paper only serves to reinforce our initial assessment that the development will have drastic and irreversible ecological, and other, impacts on Loch Ness and the River Ness,” he stated.

Shaw highlighted specific inconsistencies in GEE’s submissions from June and September regarding flow reductions in the River Ness during critical spring months. “Good flows in the River Ness in the spring are absolutely essential to enable as many salmon smolts as possible to reach the sea to commence their marine migration,” he noted. The organization remains uncertain about the true impact of the proposed scheme on these vital spring flows.

GEE’s plans include modifications to Dochfour Weir, notably the installation of a mechanical tilting weir. Shaw warned that these changes could lead to flooding and instability in river flows. “It is now clear that today’s highly stable flows in the River Ness would be replaced by a hydro-peaking river with massive variations, up to 1 meter, occurring almost daily,” he explained. “Rapidly changing water levels carry significant safety concerns.”

Despite the opposition, GEE maintains that its 2 GW pumped storage hydroelectric project would be one of the UK’s largest and most efficient energy storage systems. Located on the Balmacaan Estate, the project aims to pump water between Loch Ness and Loch nam Breac Dearga on its northern side. A spokesperson for GEE stated that the project supports green energy targets and aims to reduce energy costs.

The spokesperson refuted claims that GEE has misled planners or government officials, asserting that their extensive surveys and reports have been prepared by leading experts. “Our Environmental Impact Assessment identified that only 19 percent of migrating salmon smolts in the Ness catchment reach the sea, with the existing weir acting as a major barrier,” the spokesperson said. They emphasized that the project presents an opportunity to address this long-standing issue.

In response to the flood risk associated with the proposed weir modifications, GEE committed to maintaining the existing flood management capacity. They expressed intentions to work closely with Scottish Canals to explore modifications that would enhance fish passage, restore natural flow patterns in the River Ness, and ensure navigability during dry summer periods.

GEE also highlighted its commitment to creating Scotland’s largest Community Wealth Fund, valued at approximately £20 million annually for over 100 years. This fund is intended to build climate resilience in the Loch Ness area while advancing strategic policy goals for the UK.

The company is currently collaborating with the NDSFB on a detailed smolt tracking study to gain insights into fish movement and behavior. “We want decisions based on real data, gathered here in Loch Ness,” the spokesperson added.

While GEE acknowledges the concerns surrounding the pumped storage project, they assert that not all schemes are the same. The organization emphasizes that their design maximizes efficiency and minimizes environmental impact, positioning it as a safe and secure addition to the energy supply landscape.

As discussions continue, the future of the Loch Ness hydro project remains uncertain, with both sides emphasizing the importance of addressing ecological concerns while pursuing energy development. GEE asserts its commitment to ongoing engagement with stakeholders throughout the planning process to ensure a transparent and informed debate.