Civil and mechanical works have been completed at the Lochay Hydro Power Station in Perthshire, marking a significant milestone in SSE's £80 million multi-year refurbishment programme.

Main construction works are continuing at the site to repower the facility and extend its operational life by at least 40 years. Led by principal contractor Global Infrastructure, the project construction team has recorded over 80,000 working hours on-site since the refurbishment initiative commenced in April 2025.

First commissioned in 1958, the 45MW hydro power station is undergoing the overhaul to enhance efficiency and output while maintaining existing water volumes. The upgrade aims to secure Lochay's ongoing role within Scotland's renewable energy infrastructure.

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Installation is currently underway on the first of two new turbine generating units, which is scheduled for commissioning later this year. Additionally, Phase 2 rebuild works have commenced to progress the next stage of the scheme.

Graeme Leitch, Project Manager at SSE Renewables, said: "This milestone reflects the strong progress being delivered across the Lochay refurbishment project. Working in close partnership with our principal contractor Global Infrastructure and our wider supply chain, the team has successfully completed major civil and mechanical works and is now moving into the next phase of installation and commissioning. This investment will help ensure Lochay continues to provide reliable renewable electricity for many decades to come."

The repowering project is slated for completion in 2028, matching the power station's 70th anniversary. Upon completion, Lochay will be commissioned with an uprated export capacity of 51MW, aligning with SSE's broader strategy to modernise its hydro fleet and optimise generation across its existing renewable assets.