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Stantec welcomes plans for Sloy pumped hydro storage conversion

05/31/2023 UNITED KINGDOM TSX, NYSE:STN

Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering services, is supporting SSE Renewables’ plans to convert the 152.5MW Sloy hydro power station on the west bank of Loch Lomond into a new pumped hydro storage facility. 

The move is expected to bolster energy security by providing a significant amount of flexible renewable energy storage, which is needed to support a net zero power system in the UK. Stantec’s energy team is working as the prime consultant on the conversion, supporting with the design and hydromechanical specification for the new pumps. 

As Britain transitions to rely more on low-carbon power, the development of additional storage will be crucial for surety of supply and to create a renewables-led energy system that can cope with periods of intermittent wind and sun. 

Subject to final design, the converted Sloy scheme will be capable of delivering up to 25GWh of long-duration electricity storage capacity. This will provide firm, flexible renewable energy for up to 160 hours non-stop–enough to power around 90,000 homes for up to a week.

Douglas Cockett, Regional Project Technical Leader, Stantec, commented: “This is a fantastic and game-changing project. There are a number of technical and physical challenges when it comes to converting the largest hydropower station in Britain to pumped storage. Designing a new pumping station that fits within the constrained site boundary whilst being sympathetic to and protecting the existing Grade A listed station is a key consideration. 

“By making use of innovate solutions and methods, we can demonstrate that these projects are achievable. Beyond the detail of the mechanics and hydraulics, the chance for us to contribute to the evolution of an iconic station on the beautiful shores of Loch Lomond is a professional highlight. Our project team have worked very closely with SSE to develop the concept design." 

John Ord, Business Director, Energy, Stantec added: "Increasing energy storage capacity is vital for the UK’s transition to a clean but reliable energy network. Visionary projects like SSE’s Sloy, and Coire Glas – have the potential to treble Britain's existing capacity. If we are to meet our net zero targets, accelerating the development of schemes like these is essential.

“We’re proud to work with SSE Renewables on transformative schemes which embody our commitments to help deliver clean growth and resilience, while meeting the needs of current and future communities". 

Finlay McCutcheon, Director of Onshore Europe, SSE Renewables, added: “The development of pumping capability at Sloy also complements our development plans for our other pumped hydro storage project at Coire Glas. Taken together and if approved for delivery, Coire Glas and Sloy can treble Britain’s current flexible electricity storage capacity.”

About Stantec
Communities are fundamental. Whether around the corner or across the globe, they provide a foundation, a sense of place and of belonging. That's why at Stantec, we always design with community in mind.

We care about the communities we serve because they're our communities too. This allows us to assess what's needed and connect our expertise, to appreciate nuances and envision what's never been considered, to bring together diverse perspectives so we can collaborate towards a shared success.

We're designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe.

Stantec trades on the TSX and the NYSE under the symbol STN.

Media Contact                                               
Calum Metcalfe                                                            
Stantec UK Media Relations
calum.metcalfe@stantec.com

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