Green MSP Scrutinises Braan Hydro Energy Plan

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Green MSP Scrutinises Braan Hydro Energy Plan

Green MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, Mark Ruskell, recently visited the site of a proposed renewable energy development on the river Braan. He was enquiring into the potential impact of the scheme on the ecology of the river, and effects that the development would have on recreational and tourist interests in the area round Rumbling Bridge and the Hermitage.

Plans by Stanley-based energy company NPower Renewables to develop a "run of river" hydro generation scheme, to harness power from a steep section of the river Braan either side of Rumbling Bridge falls, sparked controversy in some quarters when the company applied to the Scottish Executive for permission for the development. Fears were voiced about the future of the famous rumbling bridge, and the loss of important canoeing resource.

If approved, the scheme would have a capacity of approximately 3.4MW, generating approximately 11GWh a year. This would be enough to supply approximately 2,500 households. The power would be exported directly to the local distribution network and used by local households in the Strathbraan and Dunkeld area.

Having examined the Environmental Impact Statement prepared by the developers in support of their application, Mark Ruskell visited the site with representatives of the company to learn at first hand about the practical implications of scheme. He quizzed company staff about efforts to resolve outstanding issues relating to the continued access to the river by whitewater canoeing interests, if the scheme is given the go ahead.

Negotiation Urged

Following his visit Mark Ruskell, Green speaker on the environment, commented: "This is a good proposed scheme and the developers have been sensitive to the character of the river and the needs of other people with an interest in its future. A lot of care has been taken to maintain the spectacle of the Braan, while harnessing enough green energy to make the scheme a viable proposition, and I hope the Council will back the scheme before it goes to the Executive for a final decision.

"The sticking point still seems to be the views of canoeists who are worried about loss of a valued white water resource - my message to them is to sit down with nPower and work out an acceptable compromise. The company seems prepared to be flexible in allowing a large number of days each year when the scheme can be turned off to maximise conditions for canoeists.

“It would be constructive if canoeing interests could engage with this offer instead of trying to block this green energy proposal outright."