Nominee Summary
The Arrochar Community Hydro Project was facilitated by the donation of land by Luss Estates in 2018 to develop a community hydroelectric scheme benefiting the communities of Luss, Arrochar and Tarbet. The scheme's profits are equally distributed among these communities to support local projects.
Overcoming Challenges
The Community Hydro Society required significant funding to embark on the project, and via the efforts of Luss Estates, Local Energy Scotland and CARES development officers, a Community Share offer was taken up in July 2017 via Energy4All, which provided the required capital to realise the project. The Hydro Scheme required the construction of an entirely new footbridge over the popular Three Lochs Way, an additional cost that was unexpected. The Helensburgh and Arrochar District Trust (HADAT) in conjunction with Luss Estates, covered that cost and provided the community of Arrochar with a safer, upgraded, walking route that is well used.
Supporting the community
The project marks the first large Post War Hydro Electric scheme in the area, bringing the present and future community further benefits to reinvest in their communities. The Arrochar & Tarbet Development Trust and Luss & Arden Development Trust receive an annual dividend from profits of the hydro scheme, to reinvest in their respective communities. In Arrochar, the Community Village Hall has benefited already from funds generated by the hydro scheme and is helping to provide a social, cultural, recreational and educational hub for local residents. In Luss, funds generated by the scheme are being used to fund the purchase of the defunct Visitor Centre, which the community hope to convert into an income generating asset and community hub.
Ethical/environmental standards
The Arrochar Community Hydro Society draws in members of the community from Luss, Tarbet, Arrochar and Luss. The local Landowner, Luss Estates, gifted the required land on a peppercorn rent in order to facilitate the project's conception. The project contractor, Highland Eco is based in Perthshire and bring years of expertise in Community Hydro Projects. Representatives of the local Development Trusts sit on the Arrochar Hydro board and ensure good governance. The hydro itself is managed and maintained by members of the local community, who attend call outs in all weather.
