Scottish Water’s trial at Scotland’s largest wastewater pumping station has woven bespoke habitat measures into a solar project completed in late 2025 — and the results are already evident.

Biodiversity enhancements at the Gailes Wastewater Pumping Station, near Irvine, are now flourishing after being integrated from the outset with a new solar power installation finished at the end of last year.

Ahead of construction, a detailed ecological assessment identified opportunities to support a wide range of species, with nature-positive features designed into the scheme from the start so that renewable energy generation progressed hand in hand with habitat creation.

Measures include a new wildlife pond, bird and bee boxes, additional native tree planting, hedging and scrub, and more than 2,000 square metres of wildflower meadow. Together, they have turned the site into a richer habitat for wildlife, including the rare tormentil mining bee.

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Scottish Water Horizons Project Manager, Pauline Donnelly, who led the project, said: "Gailes has been a great example of how taking a more thoughtful, site-specific approach can really pay off. By looking closely at what will work best in each location, we can make sure we're delivering the biggest possible boost for biodiversity as well as renewable energy.

"We're already seeing the difference this can make, with the site coming to life through new habitats and species, delivering benefits for pollinators, amphibians, birds and more. Just as importantly, it's shown how these kinds of improvements can be successfully delivered on a busy operational site."

Scottish Water Treatment Operator Johnny McKillop added: "From an operational point of view, it's been really encouraging to see how these changes can be introduced without impacting the day-to-day running of the site and the Gailes project proves how renewable energy and biodiversity can work hand in hand. For me personally, it is a joy to see each time I arrive on site.

"The improvements have been carefully planned to fit within the space and operations here at Gailes, and it's great to see the site looking greener and supporting nature while continuing to do its job."

The work has strengthened ecological connectivity with the neighbouring Gailes Marsh Reserve and the Western Gailes nature conservation area. On the back of this success, Scottish Water is adopting the nature-first model across future renewables projects on its sites.

Each location will be guided by a dedicated ecological assessment to pinpoint the most effective biodiversity measures tailored to local conditions, habitat potential and operational needs — ensuring clean energy generation delivers lasting gains for nature.