Galloway and Lanark hydro stations explore solar panel prospects
Drax bought the hydro scheme - which provides enough energy to power more than 400,000 homes - in late December 2018.The Lanark system is made up of two power stations – one at Bonnington near New Lanark and one at Stonebyres near Lanark.It is one of the oldest in the UK and was commissioned in 1926.The Galloway scheme opened nine years later and comprises six power stations at Drumjohn, Kendoon, Carsfad, Earlstoun, Glenlee and Tongland which run from north of Carsphairn to near Kirkcudbright.
Plant manager for Drax's hydro-electric power schemes in Galloway and Lanark, Martin McGhie, confirmed its proposals."By generating renewable electricity on-site, we aim to power the schemes' auxiliary systems sustainably, supporting the operation of the core power generation components at each plant," he explained"Although these proposals are still at an early stage and subject to final design work and planning approvals, the potential is significant."The solar installations could generate up to 482 MWh of clean electricity each year, enabling us to generate hydro power with solar energy, and further reinforce our commitment to renewable generation."
If they go ahead, the plans would see about 1,500 solar panels installed across the eight hydro power stations.The panels would be fitted to the rooftops of the sites and be able to meet the auxiliary power needs of the facilities.
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