Coire Glas Hydropower Project
Project details
Project name: Coire Glas Hydropower Project
Project location: Loch Lochy
Installed capacity: 1 500 MW
Project owner: SSE Renewables
Assessment details
Assessment tool: Hydropower Sustainability Standard
Assessment stage: Preparation
Assessment date: 2 - 5 December 2024
Assessor team
Sustainability assessment overview
The preparation stage assessment of SSE’s Coire Glas project was conducted to a good standard, though some gaps exist in addressing cumulative impacts of pump-storage hydropower development in the Scottish Highlands. Some gaps were found in how the project considers the combined impacts of pumped storage development in the region, but these are not considered critical and can be addressed before construction starts.
SSE shows strong performance in labour conditions, health and safety, and staff policies. Water and sediment management is based on detailed studies, and biodiversity, cultural heritage, and community impacts have been carefully assessed and planned for through consultation with stakeholders.
The project also shows good practices in governance, procurement, and communication. Some technical areas, such as fish protection and downstream water flows, still need more work. Coire Glas is expected to support climate resilience and net-zero goals, and is in a good position to address the remaining issues before construction begins.
The public consultation period for the Assessment Report of the Coire Glas Hydropower Project is open from 17 April 2025 to 18 June 2025.
Evidence of the distribution of the assessment report to provide comments is available here.
