Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 7, Gilkes Energy has received planning approval for its Earba Pumped Storage Hydro (PSH) scheme, set to become the UK’s largest project of its type. Boasting a 1.8GW installed capacity and 40GWh of storage, the facility can deliver 22 hours of power at full operation. The application for this development was lodged with the Scottish government in early March 2024.
Loch Earba (pictured) was chosen for its ideal combination of topology and geology.
Situated at Loch Earba in the central Scottish Highlands, the site was selected for its favorable geology and topography. Gilkes Energy notes that these features position the Earba PSH as one of the most cost-effective PSH projects currently in development across the UK. While a construction start date remains unspecified, the build is projected to span six to seven years, generating around 500 onsite jobs during that period.
David Tomb, project director for Earba PSH, welcomed the approval, saying: “A milestone for the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future.” He emphasized the economic benefits, highlighting new opportunities for the Highland region. Meanwhile, Carl Crompton, managing director of Gilkes Energy, acknowledged the achievement but pointed to future challenges: “Now the real work begins as we transform the consented project into a fully designed, tendered, and costed venture. Our next steps include securing the substantial capital needed to bring this exciting project to life and making it fully financeable.”
In a related development, Gilkes Energy recently advanced its PSH portfolio further. Late last month, the company, alongside SSE Renewables, submitted a planning application to Scottish ministers for the Fearna PSH project. Located 25 kilometers from Invergarry in the Scottish Highlands, this 1.8GW, 36GWh initiative is a 50:50 joint venture. Gilkes Energy is spearheading the development under an agreement with SSE Renewables. When announced in July 2024, the Fearna project had already secured a 1.795GW grid connection offer. No timeline for the planning decision or potential construction start has been confirmed yet.
These efforts underscore Gilkes Energy’s commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure in Scotland, supporting sustainable power generation and local economic growth.
