Plans for a new 400MW pumped-hydro scheme at Loch Ness are due to be launched next week.
The Red John scheme will be developed by Intelligent Land Investments (ILI) of Hamilton and see water pumped between Loch Ness and a newly-created upper headpond, which will use the natural topography between Loch Duntelchaig, Loch Ashie and Loch na Curra and Lochan an Eoin Ruadha, from where the development gets the Red John name.
The developers expect the scheme will be able to provide 2.4GWh of storage capacity for the grid over six-hour period once complete.
“Renewable energy capacity in Scotland has more than doubled since 2007, but due to its intermittent nature there is a need to store surplus energy from sources such as wind, so it can be used when we need it most,” said ILI chief executive, Mark Wilson.
“Pumped storage hydro is the largest and cleanest form of energy storage that currently exists – and a key enabler in helping Scotland meet its green energy ambitions.
“As well as dramatically improving our energy security, this transformational proposal is a fantastic opportunity for the community to benefit from the energy transition while helping turbo-charge Scotland’s decarbonisation efforts,” added Wilson.
The plans will go on public display at Dores Community Hall next week, on June 27 and 28.