EIGHT historic hydro power stations across the south west of Scotland could have hundreds of solar panels fitted to them.
Renewable energy firm Drax is reportedly exploring plans to install around 1500 solar panels at its sites in Galloway and Lanark, some of which date back nearly 100 years.
If the proposed plans go ahead, Drax said it would help meet the back-up power needs of the hydro sites, which currently pay to source their electricity needs from the local grid.
The energy firm said that although its proposals were at an early stage, the potential impact was “significant”, according to the BBC.
Plant manager for Drax's hydro-electric power schemes in Galloway and Lanark, Martin McGhie, confirmed the firm's proposals to the BBC.
“By generating renewable electricity on-site, we aim to power the schemes' auxiliary systems sustainably, supporting the operation of the core power generation components at each plant,” he explained
“Although these proposals are still at an early stage and subject to final design work and planning approvals, the potential is significant.
“The solar installations could generate up to 482 MWh of clean electricity each year, enabling us to generate hydro power with solar energy, and further reinforce our commitment to renewable generation.”
The hydro scheme, which provides enough energy to power more than 400,000 homes, was bought by Drax in late December 2018.
The Lanark system is made up of two power stations, with one located at Bonnington near New Lanark and one at Stonebyres close to Lanark.
Commissioned in 1926, the Lanark system is one of the oldest in the UK.
The Galloway scheme opened nine years later and comprises six power stations at Drumjohn, Kendoon, Carsfad, Earlstoun, Glenlee and Tongland which run from north of Carsphairn to near Kirkcudbright.
The proposed plans would see 1500 solar panels fitted to the rooftops of the eight sites.
