Overview
Inverawe is a 25 MW hydroelectric power plant in the United Kingdom, operated by Scottish and Southern as part of the Sloy/Awe hydro schemes. It generates renewable electricity from water flow.
Inverawe is a hydroelectric power plant located in the United Kingdom, with a capacity of 25 MW. It is owned and operated by Scottish and Southern as part of the Sloy/Awe hydro schemes, contributing to the region's renewable energy generation. The plant is operational and utilizes water flow to produce electricity. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the UK's electricity market, which includes support for renewable energy through mechanisms like the Renewables Obligation and Contracts for Difference. Hydroelectric plants of this scale are typical for run-of-river or small storage projects in the Scottish Highlands, leveraging the region's abundant water resources. As a renewable energy source, Inverawe helps reduce carbon emissions and supports the UK's transition to a low-carbon energy system. Its location in a rural area minimizes local environmental impact, while contributing to grid stability and local energy needs.
Environmental context
The hydroelectric plant uses a renewable fuel source (water), resulting in negligible CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions during operation. Its 25 MW capacity is small to medium scale, and the facility is located in a sparsely populated area of the Scottish Highlands, reducing potential impacts on populated areas. The plant's age and technology are typical for hydroelectric schemes in the region, with minimal environmental footprint compared to fossil fuel plants.
Frequently asked questions
Inverawe hydroelectric power plant is located in the United Kingdom, specifically in the Scottish Highlands near Loch Awe, with coordinates approximately 57.0363 N, -5.6812 W.
Inverawe hydroelectric power plant has a capacity of 25 megawatts (MW), making it a small to medium-scale hydroelectric facility.
Inverawe hydroelectric plant is operated by Scottish and Southern as part of the Sloy/Awe hydro schemes, a major hydroelectric system in Scotland.
Hydroelectric plants in the UK operate under the Electricity Act 1989 and are supported by renewable energy policies such as the Renewables Obligation and Contracts for Difference, which incentivize low-carbon generation.
Hydroelectric power generates electricity without direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. It also provides renewable energy that supports climate change mitigation.