SCOTTISH Water has celebrated the installation of its 100th solar scheme as the publicly-owned utility presses ahead with its renewables programme.
The organisation now has solar panels helping to power water and wastewater services at 100 sites across Scotland — from treatment works and pumping stations to operational buildings.
The milestone scheme at Kinneil Kerse Wastewater Treatment Works near Falkirk is the latest in a growing programme of renewable energy projects.
Scottish Water Horizons, the utility’s commercial subsidiary, leads the programme and works with delivery partners to identify, design and install renewable energy projects at sites where they can provide the greatest environmental and operational benefit. Donald MacBrayne, Scottish Water Horizons business development and delivery manager, said, “Reaching 100 solar schemes is a really important milestone and shows just how far the programme has come. When Scottish Water first started installing solar panels at its sites in 2011, the schemes were smaller and more limited in scale.
“In recent years, we have significantly increased both the number and size of projects being delivered, supported by advances in solar technology and a growing understanding of where renewable energy can make the biggest difference. These schemes are helping to reduce carbon emissions, lower operational costs and make our sites more resilient. They also provide long-term value for customers by reducing our exposure to volatile electricity prices.”
Scottish Water has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2040, five years ahead of Scotland’s national target.
