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Coire Glas Pumped Storage

Grid-scale, clean energy storage and generation

  • 1500

    MW Potential Capacity

  • 600M

    Powerhouse Depth

  • Great Glen, Scotland

    Great Glen, Scotland

Water batteries and hydropower generation help meet grid-scale needs

SSE Renewables set out to implement the first major UK pumped storage scheme in over 40 years. Our team provided reference designs for engineering, supporting procurement of the construction contractor. The scope included the dam, set to be the largest in the United Kingdom, with 17 kilometres (10.6 miles) of tunnels up to 10 metres (32.8 feet) in diameter, three underground caverns for the power complex, access roads, and associated infrastructure. We also completed all post Section 36 environmental permitting to enable construction.

Early 2023 saw the start of construction on a 1-kilometre (0.6-mile) exploratory adit, or nearly horizontal tunnel, at depths of up to 700 metres (2,297 feet) below ground, to investigate the geology of the power station.

The project is sited in the Great Glen of Scotland, an environmentally sensitive location. Our work also focused on water modeling, supporting the business case with socioeconomic information including 3D landscape and visual impact assessments for stakeholder meetings. 

By enabling construction of this large-scale generation scheme, which would more than double the country’s pumped hydro storage capability, SSE Renewables will help move the United Kingdom toward decarbonisation.

Find out more about the project here.

At a Glance

Offices
Client
  • SSE Renewables
Meet Our Team

Andrew Bird, Senior Hydropower Engineer, Asia Pacific Dams and Hydro Sector Leader

I love working proactively to solve problems with our clients and I am a firm believer in a best-for-project approach over the interests of companies or individuals.
Andrew Bird Senior Hydropower Engineer, Asia Pacific Dams and Hydro Sector Leader Read More

Tom Kirk, Principal Hydro Mechanical Engineer

We will continue to advance the hydropower industry by truly understanding our clients’ needs while performing expanded, value-added services.

Robin Spittle , Hydropower Consultant

I haven’t stopped learning since I started working as a consultant. Every project provides a unique challenge and new lesson.

Andrew Bird

Senior Hydropower Engineer, Asia Pacific Dams and Hydro Sector Leader

Tom Kirk

Principal Hydro Mechanical Engineer

Robin Spittle

Hydropower Consultant

We’re better together

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    Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.

  • Design your career

    Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.

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