A hydro scheme project to create renewable energy has been completed by TLS Hydro Power Ltd on a site owned by Mactaggart & Mickel Homes at Carrongrove in Denny.
The 500kW hydro station took a year to complete and reportedly has the potential to provide power for up to 500 houses, returning energy sourced from the River Carron back to the national grid.
Mactaggart & Mickel said the project reflects the history of the site which was home to Carrongrove Paper Mill for 180 years and also made use of the natural resource of the River Carron in the manufacturing process. 100% of the water used in the hydro scheme will be returned to the river.
A “fish ladder” was also created to allow local salmon to migrate up the river to spawn. A large weir on the river which was previously used to provide water to the paper mill was identified as a barrier to the movement of migratory fish.
Craig Ormond, land manager at Mactaggart & Mickel Homes, said, “This project required a great deal of planning and preparation from all involved and it’s great to see it up and running. Sustainability is a core focus of our business and projects like this demonstrate how we build this into the fabric of our developments wherever possible. The hydro scheme makes the most of and supports the natural resources of the River Carron; it’s also a nice nod to the heritage of the site where we intend to progress a new phase of development of private homes over the next few years.”
Ian Almond, hydro engineer at TLS Hydro, added, “The electricity generated in our power station will be enough to supply approximately 500 homes through our sister company, LoCO2 Energy Ltd. We are the latest in a long line of industrial history on the River Carron and pleased to play a part in the wider regeneration of the river by installing our Alaskan fish pass enabling salmon and trout populations to flourish.”
