Subscribe to our Construction Newsfeed
Scotland Construction Directory
Search our 14,682 companies....

Construction News

22/01/2025

Scotland Must Improve Hydropower Resilience

Construction News Image
A new report commissioned by Scotland's Centre of Expertise for Waters (CREW) has highlighted the need for improved management of hydropower facilities to address the challenges posed by climate change and maximise their output.

The report, published today, emphasises the importance of mitigating the impacts of sediment buildup on hydropower operations and river ecosystems.

While hydropower plays a crucial role in Scotland's renewable energy transition, the increasing volume of sediment carried by rivers due to climate change can significantly impact the performance of hydropower facilities and disrupt river ecosystems.

The report, which involved collaboration with hydropower companies, Scottish Canals, SEPA, and NatureScot, outlines a series of recommendations to address these challenges, including:

• Improving sediment management: Implementing strategies to reduce sediment entering waterways through measures such as tree planting, peatland restoration, and improved land management practices.

• Increasing awareness: Raising awareness among hydropower operators and stakeholders about the commercial and environmental risks associated with sediment buildup.

• Fostering collaboration: Creating a Scottish community of hydropower practitioners to facilitate knowledge sharing and best practice exchange.

The report also highlights public support for improved river management, with a survey indicating that Scottish households would be willing to contribute an average of £52 per year towards better river management initiatives.

By implementing these recommendations, Scotland can ensure that its hydropower sector remains resilient to the impacts of climate change while continuing to contribute to the country's renewable energy goals.
-- Advertisement --
NorthernAsbestosServicesLtd



Professor Richard Williams, of the University of Glasgow's School of Geographical & Earth Sciences, led the report's research. He said: "The research highlights the complex balance that needs to be maintained between meeting Scotland's renewable energy needs and ensuring the environment is properly protected. While hydropower is vital for meeting climate change targets, care must be taken to minimise its impacts on river health and ecosystems.

"The project also demonstrated that there is a desire within the hydropower community for further discussion and knowledge exchange activities regarding best practice activities.  If this can be achieved, it would likely maintain or improve river health and make this industry, and river catchments, more resilient in the face of expected climate changes. 

"We hope that the work we've done with our partners will provide valuable new insight for the hydropower community, empowering them to take appropriate action to ensure that impoundments can work as efficiently as possible for the benefit of all."

Dr Chris Bromley, Senior Hydromorphologist at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: "SEPA recognises the importance of Scotland's water environment and the components that contribute to healthy river habitats. The continuity of sediment transport in rivers is one of the components that can be interrupted by hydropower operations resulting in adverse environmental and commercial impacts.

"We are delighted to see that the University of Glasgow and cbec eco-engineering have proactively taken steps to produce some excellent guidance material that will help operators in understanding the environmental importance of sediment and raise awareness on the importance of correctly managing sediment in a climate-changing world."

Grace Gubbins, Sustainable Development Officer at NatureScot, said: "We welcome environmental energy sources like hydropower, but it's vital that we consider any impacts on nature. That's why NatureScot is keen to be involved in partnership work like this, reducing any negative impacts on wildlife.

"Sediment is a vital habitat for many species, some of which help break down and clean water, as well as providing nursery grounds for fish. The recommendations from this study will help us work together, in the face of the climate emergency, to protect river habitats, fish, birds and insects."

Dr Olivia Lassiere, Environment Manager, Scottish Canals, said; "As a major operator of water in Scotland through our canals and reservoirs we're already feeling the impact of climate change. Research like this is incredibly important to us as we seek to manage our water infrastructure and adapt to projected climate change impacts whilst protecting Scotland's rich wildlife and environment.

"We are delighted to have been involved in this project led by the University of Glasgow and cbec eco-engineering and look forward to continuing to engage with the water infrastructure management community."

Latest Construction News

02/04/2025
Wheatley Homes Glasgow has announced consultation events on its proposed £100 million regeneration plans for Wynford. The extensive redevelopment project aims to construct hundreds of new, energy-efficient family homes, with 85% designated for social rent and 15% for mid-market rent. The plans also
02/04/2025
Peel Ports Group has announced the appointment of 18 contractors to its new construction framework, which covers a significant programme of works across its UK and Ireland sites, potentially worth up to £750 million. The port operator has established a multi-lot framework spanning up to eight years
02/04/2025
GRAHAM, the construction company undertaking the redevelopment of the former Jenners department store in Edinburgh, welcomed a visit from the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, and the Depute Lord Provost, Lezley Marion Cameron, to the site on Monday, 31 March. Andrew Keith, the newly appo
02/04/2025
SSE's Foyers Power Station, located on the banks of Loch Ness, is marking its 50th anniversary this week. The pumped storage hydro facility, the construction of which began in 1969, was officially opened on 3rd April 1975 by the then Secretary of State for Scotland, Rt. Hon. William Ross. The 300MW
02/04/2025
In response to Ofgem's announcement of an increase in the energy price cap for April, Scottish Renewables has reiterated its call for a greater focus on developing domestic clean energy sources. Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, stated that the price cap rise demonstrates the con
02/04/2025
Representatives from the Stornoway Trust, Muaitheabhal Community Wind Farm Trust, and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar met on Thursday, 27 March, to discuss advancements in their joint venture to secure a community ownership stake of up to 20% in the Stornoway and Uisenis Wind Farms. If fully realised, th
02/04/2025
The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has welcomed a new report on the 'National Existing Buildings (NEB) Database', highlighting its potential to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions across Scotland's existing building stock. The report, produced by the Constructio
02/04/2025
East Lothian Planning Committee convened on Tuesday, 01 April, to consider three planning applications, including proposals for holiday lodges and new housing developments. One of the key decisions involved the approval of a plan to erect 22 holiday lodges at Whitekirk Hill, near North Berwick. Whi
01/04/2025
Wheatley Homes Glasgow, the city's largest social landlord, has unveiled ambitious plans to invest £156 million in improving homes and neighbourhoods across Glasgow over the next three years. The investment programme, running until 2028, aims to make homes warmer, drier, and more energy-efficient,
01/04/2025
The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) has announced a further £2 million investment over the next two years into its Regional Skills Hub Funding initiative, aimed at addressing critical skills shortages across the UK. This new funding commitment builds upon an initial £1 mill
RBT Underfloor LimitedMorris & Spottiswood LtdTennants (Elgin) LtdCF Concrete PumpingPAUL Heat RecoveryAtlas Winch & Hoist Services LtdClaymore Training LimitedMulberry Kitchen DesignScaftec LtdTALA Training