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Innerhadden Hydro Scheme Approval
MSP Murdo Fraser has welcomed the decision that Innerhadden Burn hydro scheme in Highland Perthshire has been given the go ahead, and has called on the Scottish Government to speed up the time it takes to give a decision on small-scale renewable schemes.
The scheme will be two kilometres south east of Kinloch Rannoch and is capable of powering around 1,000 homes and will produce 1.4 Megawatts.
In December 2005, Innerhadden Hydro Ltd applied for consent to construct and operate a run of river hydro electric station on the Innerhadden Burn. The proposals were supported by P&K Council, SNH and SEPA, subject to conditions.
The MSP said:“It is welcome news that it has been approved. The backing of the local authority as well as SNH and SEPA underlines that the proposals are acceptable and take into account the surrounding area.
“I am a strong supporter of small-scale hydro schemes and I have visited a number of them in Highland Perthshire which have a very low level of impact, both visually and environmentally. These small-scale hydro schemes make a valuable contribution to achieving our renewable energy targets and provide useful income to farmers and rural businesses. Small-scale hydro schemes are also much less intrusive than wind farms and cause much less controversy, and that is one reason why the Scottish Government should be encouraging many more of them in preference to onshore wind.
Speed Up Process
“Although I am pleased that Innerhadden hydro scheme has been given the go ahead, I know that there are still issues about the length of time it takes for a decision to be made on such schemes. Whilst I believe there must be a full consultation before any hydro scheme is approved, developers having to wait years for a decision is not acceptable and the system needs to be improved.”
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