The Loch Kemp pumped storage hydropower scheme, part of the first major hydropower projects in Great Britain in 40 years, will cause significant environmental damage to Loch Ness and its surroundings, according to a letter from Neil Mackenzie published in The Guardian.
Environmental Costs of the Scheme
The project will draw water from Loch Ness and pump it into an enlarged Loch Kemp to create an upper reservoir. A giant power station will be built in protected ancient woodland on the shores of Loch Ness, which is a special area of conservation and an internationally recognised site.
This construction, including the power station and access road, will partly destroy the woodland, leading to the loss of ancient hazel trees and one of the best sites for lichens in Britain.
Impact on Loch Ness and Salmon Population
The shoreline around Loch Ness will be severely impacted by the drawdown from hydro activities. According to the Ness District Salmon Fisheries Board, the salmon population in the loch could become extinct as a result.
Neil Mackenzie questioned the necessity of destroying protected sites and Britain's most iconic loch for renewable energy, stating: 'Yes, we need renewables, but do we have to destroy protected sites and Britain’s most iconic loch to achieve this?'
