Overview
Derrydarroch is a 1.9 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United Kingdom, operated by Darroch Power Limited. It contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity.
Derrydarroch is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United Kingdom, with a capacity of 1.9 MW. The facility is owned by Darroch Power Limited and is currently operational, supporting the region's renewable energy generation. The plant operates as a run-of-river or small-scale hydroelectric facility, typical for the UK's mountainous regions. It falls under the UK's regulatory framework for renewable energy, including the Renewables Obligation and environmental permitting under the Environmental Permitting Regulations. Small hydro plants like this often benefit from feed-in tariffs or contracts for difference. As a renewable energy source, Derrydarroch produces zero direct CO2 emissions during operation, contributing to the UK's net-zero targets. Its small capacity means it serves local grid needs, and its environmental impact is generally low, with careful management of water flows to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic habitats through altered water flows and barriers to fish migration. Derrydarroch, as a small-scale plant, likely has minimal ecological disruption. The UK's strict environmental regulations, including the Water Framework Directive, require such facilities to implement mitigation measures like fish passes and minimum flow releases.
Frequently asked questions
Derrydarroch is located in the United Kingdom, at coordinates 56.8322° N, -5.0801° W, in a region suitable for hydroelectric generation.
Derrydarroch has a capacity of 1.9 MW, classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The plant is owned by Darroch Power Limited, a company operating in the UK's renewable energy sector.
Hydroelectric plants in the UK must comply with the Environmental Permitting Regulations, the Water Framework Directive, and the Renewables Obligation, ensuring environmental protection and renewable energy support.
As a hydroelectric plant, Derrydarroch generates electricity from flowing water without direct CO2 emissions, supporting the UK's transition to a low-carbon energy system.