Glen Earrach Energy (GEE) has submitted a planning application under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 for a 2GW pumped storage hydropower project near Loch Ness. If approved, it would be one of the UK’s largest energy storage projects.
The proposed development is expected to play a key role in supporting the UK’s net zero targets, enhancing energy security, and reducing costs. According to GEE, the project would deliver £20 million annually to Highland communities over a 125-year lifespan through what would become Scotland’s largest-ever community benefit fund.
New polling by Opinium, commissioned by GEE, shows 56% of Highland residents support pumped storage development on Loch Ness, while 16% oppose it. The survey also found that local residents want the Scottish planning system to prioritise projects with the greatest energy, economic, and community impact. Delivering reliable and affordable energy (54%), ensuring value for money (53%), and generating economic and employment benefits (53%) were among the top concerns. Only 7% believed that the order of project submissions should determine approval.
GEE says its proposal would account for nearly three-quarters of the planned pumped storage capacity for Loch Ness (34GWh of 46GWh) and two-thirds of the area’s generating capacity – using only half the water. The site’s natural topography and 500m elevation drop are key to its efficiency. The company claims the project could reduce the UK grid’s carbon footprint by 10% and deliver £2.9 billion in Net System Benefits over its first 20 years.
Community feedback led to several changes to the project design, including reduced visual impact, less transport on the A82, and a decrease in above-ground infrastructure. GEE held four rounds of community consultations before entering the formal pre-application phase, and says it will continue to engage with local stakeholders during the planning process.
The project is expected to support around 1,000 jobs during construction and provide long-term employment opportunities in the Highlands. A Letter of Intent included in the application confirms GEE’s commitment to a multi-million-pound community benefit fund.
Roderick Macleod, Director of Glen Earrach Energy, said: “This project is poised to become one of the UK’s largest and most advanced energy storage initiatives, delivering the most substantial community benefit fund ever in Scotland. The Highlands deserves the best project, and we remain on track to deliver it, with the first power being produced in 2030.
“We’ve listened carefully to local views and will keep doing so. Now we look forward to working with the Scottish Government, The Highland Council and all key stakeholders to deliver this vital project.”
Richard Whitehead, AECOM Chief Executive for Europe and India, added: “As the UK transitions to cleaner energy, pumped storage hydro will play an increasingly important role in its future energy mix, providing reliable and efficient storage solutions to balance the grid. The scale of Glen Earrach has the potential to meaningfully contribute to Scotland’s net zero ambitions, and those of the UK as a whole, while also delivering benefits to both the environment and local communities. Planning submission is a significant step forward and AECOM is proud of its role in achieving this milestone, along with its continued support in the delivery of this scheme.”
