PLANS have been launched for the build of a pumped storage hydro scheme in the Highlands which would support around 500 jobs at peak construction.
SSE and Gilkes Energy are behind the proposals for the Fearna pumped storage (PSH) project at the western end of Glengarry, around 25km west of Invergarry and would adjoin SSE Renewables’ existing Loch Quoich reservoir in the Great Glen hydro scheme.
Fearna PSH has a proposed installed capacity of 1.8GW with a stored capacity of up to 36GWh, providing 20 hours of storage and which would make it the largest such scheme in the UK if delivered.
The developers said the project would support around 500 jobs at the peak of its seven-year construction period.
Plans envisage the development of tunnels and a new power station connecting SSE Renewables’ existing reservoir at Loch Quoich with an upper reservoir at Loch Fearna.
Under the terms of the joint venture agreement announced in July 2024, Gilkes Energy will lead the project’s development under a developer services agreement with SSE Renewables.
Fraser Allison, project director of the Fearna PSH project, said, “We are pleased to have submitted a section 365 planning consent application to Scottish ministers for Fearna. This exciting long duration electricity storage project could be the largest in the UK for both installed capacity and stored energy. We are looking forward to continued engagement with stakeholders, supply chain partners and the local community as the planning process moves forward.”
