ILI Group has formally submitted a Section 36 planning application to the Scottish Government for Balliemeanoch PSH.
This substantial 1.5 GW pumped storage hydro (PSH) project, located in Argyll & Bute, Scotland, represents a major investment in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure.
With the potential to power 4.5 million homes and significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, Balliemeanoch PSH is set to play a vital role in achieving the UK’s energy goals. A planned connection date of 2031 positions it as a key player in the long-term energy landscape.
Addressing Energy Storage Needs
As the UK accelerates its shift towards renewable energy sources, the demand for large-scale, long-duration energy storage solutions becomes increasingly critical. The Balliemeanoch PSH project stands as a significant endeavor in addressing this demand and advancing the nation’s climate objectives.
Key Project Highlights:
- Capacity: 1.5GW of power for up to 30 hours, 45,000 MWh.
- Location: Loch Awe, Dalmally, Argyll & Bute, Scotland.
- Storage: New headpond capable of holding 58 million cubic meters of water.
- Environmental Impact: Projected reduction of over 200 million tons of CO2 equivalent over its lifespan.
- Economic Benefits: £1.5-2 billion in construction investment, potentially creating up to 1000 construction jobs at peak, with many more indirect jobs across Scotland and the UK.
- Construction Timeline: 5-year build.
- Projected Connection Date: 2031.
Project Partnership:
ILI Group has partnered with AECOM, a globally recognized infrastructure consulting firm, as technical consultants for the Balliemeanoch PSH project. AECOM’s vast experience in large-scale infrastructure projects has been crucial in the development of detailed plans for this ambitious undertaking.
Leadership Perspective:
Mark Wilson, CEO of ILI Group, stated, “The submission of the planning application for Balliemeanoch marks another major milestone in our dedication to strengthening the UK’s renewable energy capacity.
This follows our recent sale of the Loch na Cathrach project (formerly Red John) to Statkraft, further demonstrating the crucial role of pumped storage hydro in our energy future. Long-duration energy storage projects like Balliemeanoch and Loch na Cathrach are essential to maintaining grid stability as we increase our reliance on renewable energy sources.”
Policy and Economic Implications:
Wilson continued, “The recent UK Government’s consultation on long-duration energy storage emphasizes the need for a robust policy framework to support these projects.
The proposed cap and floor investment framework will be key in overcoming investment barriers, ensuring that Scotland can deploy significant storage capacity to meet our net zero targets.
This project not only addresses climate change but also promises substantial economic benefits. It will bolster the country’s energy security and has the potential to lower household energy bills.”