NETHERMILLS HYDRO SCHEME CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

Commissioned by the Energy Agency, hydrological and feasibility studies at the site of two weirs in the River Ayr next to Ayrshire College indicated a hydro-power scheme on the north bank could generate approximately 320 megawatt hours (MWh) of energy in a typical year. Subsequently, Energy Agency Renewables Ltd was created to do just that.

HYDRO-POWER

With sustainability at the heart of this non-profit organisation, the technology considered most suitable for the ecologically sensitive site, was a 90kW Archimedes single screw turbine. With periodic replacement of wearing parts, this robust technology should last many years.

The screw itself weighs 25 tonnes, is 4m in diameter and 9m long, normally turning at 20 RPM, but can turn slower in low water flows.

G Reen Energy Production

Energy supply: Ofgem estimates an average UK house uses 2,900kWh of electricity per year. At regular output the turbine could supply 110 of them, or up to 250 when operating at full power.

Carbon savings: Compared to a typical gas power station emitting 490gCO2e/kWh, the 320,000kWh produced by the hydro scheme could save 156.8 tonnes CO2e per annum.

First Year

Operational since March 2022, and despite being an unusually dry year, the Energy Agency celebrated Nethermills first year of energy production by reporting it generated 321MWh of electricity. Of this, 79% was used by the college, the remaining 21% was exported to the grid.

Sustainable Future

Nethermills Hydro Scheme should continue to generate green energy for several decades. After capital costs are repaid, future surplus funds will be used for projects to reduce carbon and fuel poverty in South West Scotland.

Raising awareness and understanding of the use and benefits of renewable energy technologies, the Energy Agency is looking forward to celebrating many more anniversaries.

www.energyagency.org.uk