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Report says Scottish hydropower potential could be doubled Scotland's hydro potential is nearly double the amount previously estimated, according to a study published by the Scottish Government.. An update on a 2008 study on Scotland's hydro resources now estimates there could be 1.2 gigawatts of potential new hydro capacity in 7,043 schemes. This compares to 657 megawatts (MW) according to the 2008 study. The study has taken account of micro-hydro schemes under 100 kilowatts (kW) and has factored in payments to supply electricity to the grid. In a related development the Scottish Government has today published a short policy statement on its support for hydro while protecting the water environment. Energy minister Jim Mather said: "There is a clear untapped potential for smaller, community hydro schemes which can create green energy and tackle climate change. "While large scale renewable energy development is helping drive economic recovery, there could also be substantial economic and social benefit from micro-hydro schemes. "In optimising that potential, care must be taken to avoid adverse impacts on our water environment. "While every new scheme must be assessed on its own merits, if we can tap into new hydro power we can tackle climate change and continue to stimulate sustainable economic growth." The increase in site numbers compared to the 2008 study is largely in the sub-100 kW range due to the favourable tariff for micro-hydro generation. Source: Utility Week © Faversham House Group Ltd 2010. News articles may be copied or forwarded
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