Scottish Water: Hydro energy generation scheme

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At a Glance
Who: Scottish Water
What: Hydro energy generation scheme using siphon technology
Where: Whiteadder Reservoir, East Lothian, Scotland
Why: To generate green energy, control reservoir levels, and reduce carbon emissions
When: Ongoing project 

The Challenge 

The challenge has been multifaceted. Firstly, addressing the seasonal fluctuations in water levels at Whiteadder Reservoir due to Scotland’s variable weather conditions. Secondly, meeting the increasing need for sustainable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions. 

The Solution 

The solution involves implementing a unique hydroenergy generation scheme. Using siphon technology, water is drawn up through an intake, flows over the dam, and passes through a hydro turbine before returning to the natural environment. This system ensures precise control of reservoir levels and simultaneously generates green energy, addressing both challenges effectively. 

How the Project Works 

The project’s core technology, the siphon, is equipped with smart controls and sensors capable of accurately measuring water levels even during adverse weather conditions. This precision allows for extracting the right amount of water from the reservoir to meet customer demands. The hydro turbine then converts the flowing water’s kinetic energy into electricity, which offsets power usage at the Hungry Snout pumping station. 

The Results 

By reducing the carbon emissions from the Hungry Snout pumping station, it is estimated to save approximately 111 tonnes of carbon annually – equivalent to a passenger jet flying from Edinburgh to Sydney, Australia 40 times. Additionally, the scheme is expected to generate 0.82 gigawatt-hour (GWh) of renewable energy per annum from its 199-kilowatt (kW) turbine. 

Business Benefits 

The project provides several business benefits, including a reduced carbon footprint for the local water supply, contributing to Scottish Water’s net-zero by 2040 goal, and enhancing Scotland’s green energy grid. 

Investment/Savings 

Scottish Water has pledged an investment of £3m in its hydro energy generation project. The financial return of investment data is unavailable, but it encompasses a significant reduction in environmental impact through saving nearly 111 tonnes of carbon annually.  

Industry Context 

Hydropower accounts for 2.1% of UK renewable energy sources, a figure consistent since 2000. However, the UK hosts 1,561 hydropower plants, a fivefold increase since 2003. 

Despite this growth, wind and solar power have received more funding from the UK government, resulting in hydropower remaining a small fraction of the renewable mix.  

Looking ahead, global hydropower capacity is expected to exceed 1,200 gigawatts (GW) in 2022, with investments reaching £30bn, according to Rystad Energy, an independent energy research company.