Loch Ness was at the forefront of renewable energy production in the late 1800s with the Foyers development being the first large scale hydro development in the UK. During the mid 1900’s some of the rivers feeding into Loch Ness were dammed to help contribute to Scotland’s hydro power resource. Now, at the start of the 21st century, solar, biomass and heat pumps are among the new green technologies being used to heat and power tourist accommodation and attractions around the Loch.
Consumer Focus, the independent consumer champion for Scotland today launched its latest report – Power at Home – Improving consumer access to the benefits of microgeneration. The report highlights the challenges and opportunities for homes and small businesses to engage with microgeneration; generating heat and power at household level using renewable energy sources. Reduced energy bills and green house gas emissions are some of the positive impacts arising from this new technology. Access to impartial information and guidance on suitable technologies and uncertainty about financing the installation of microgeneration equipment are seen as some of the obstacles.
Scotland now has the most ambitious Climate Change Legislation in the world which will lead to more diverse energy production. As energy prices are only going one way – up, with microgeneration, there has never been a better opportunity for the Loch Ness area to be at the forefront of the 21st century energy revolution.
On a local level many businesses and householders are benefiting from Community Trusts grants which are focused on helping properties around Loch Ness become more environmentally friendly, hence the proliferation of Green business around the loch with a high concentration of Green business on South Loch Ness. Visitors can rest assured that tourism business is doing its utmost to create a sustainable tourism industry in this part of the Scottish Highlands.
Author Archie Prentice
