SSE Renewables’ virtual tours: a behind-the-scenes insight into the world of hydropower

SSE Renewables has released two video tours designed to give an insight into the world of hydropower, at a time when access to their operational estate is restricted by ongoing coronavirus precautions.

The ‘Virtual Hydro Tour’ series will go behind-the-scenes of one of Scotland’s most prominent industries, highlighting hydro’s continued importance as the UK’s original source of renewable energy.

To mark the launch of the first two films in the series, SSE Renewables hosted a virtual roundtable discussion with industry leaders and prominent stakeholders, to debate hydro’s vital role in the path to net zero carbon emissions.

Taking part in the discussion Managing Director of SSE Renewables, Jim Smith said:

“I see these videos as a useful resource which will help inform stakeholders as well as the general public of the continued important role of hydropower in Scotland. I expect that they will spark debate about the capability of our existing estate and how this should evolve in future to support the UK’s net zero economy.”

Of the two videos released today, Episode 1: ‘Understanding Hydropower’ (above) introduces the science behind hydropower and the different kinds of hydro power that are utilised to power Scotland and the UK’s homes and businesses.

Episode 2: ‘Inside Our Hydro Power Stations’ (below) takes a whistle-stop tour across Scotland visiting SSE Renewables’ different power stations often situated amidst breathtaking scenery, while colleagues explain how each facility operates.

Featured in the second video is SSE Renewables proposed Coire Glas pumped hydro storage scheme. SSE Renewables are working proactively with Government and regulatory bodies to explore opportunities for securing investment in Coire Glas and other long term storage to secure the benefits to UK consumers and society that they bring.

Chief Executive of the International Hydropower Association, Eddie Rich attended the roundtable discussion and said:

“These videos shine the spotlight on SSE Renewables hydro business at an important time – when the opportunity for sustainable hydropower to demonstrate its potential contribution to the energy transition has never been bigger.

“They serve to highlight the importance of this industry at a time when Governments must decide who should pay for developing long-duration storage to deliver a more secure and affordable electricity system.

Two further Virtual Hydro Tour videos will be released later in Summer 2021 and will be available via the dedicated Hydro Tours webpage at sserenewables.com/virtual-hydro-tour

For more information about Coire Glas visit coireglas.com.