Tenderer selected for Coire Glas Exploratory Works

SSE Renewables has selected a world leader in mining and tunnelling projects to undertake Exploratory Works for the Coire Glas pumped storage hydro scheme.

STRABAG UK, which has extensive experience in complex infrastructure and ground engineering, is the preferred tenderer to undertake the project after a rigorous process. 

Coire Glas, located in the Great Glen between Fort William and Inverness, would create enough long duration storage capacity to power three million homes for periods of up to 24 hours. The 1500-megawatt scheme would be the first large-scale pumped hydro storage scheme to be built in the UK for more than 30 years and make a significant contribution towards Scottish and UK Government net zero emission targets.

The Exploratory Works, which are scheduled to begin at the Coire Glas site this summer, will provide essential information on the nature of underground conditions at the location. The findings of the Exploratory Works will be used to inform the final design of the project and will be an important consideration in SSE Renewables’ final decision on whether to proceed with the Coire Glas project.

The work will see the creation of a tunnel approximately four metres wide and up to one kilometre long, which will cut into the hillside towards the proposed location of the underground powerhouse complex. Samples of the materials within the hill will be analysed, and survey and assessment work will be carried out to give a detailed understanding of the geological conditions. The information will then be used in detailed design of the tunnel and cavern support structures.

The selection of STRABAG UK as the preferred tenderer will enable detailed preparations for the works to be progressed over the coming months, including engagement with businesses in Lochaber to identify supply chain opportunities.

Ian Innes, Project Director for Coire Glas, welcomed STRABAG UK’s appointment.

He said: “STRABAG UK has a reputation for innovation and delivering a wide variety of specialist skills and services on major construction projects. Their experience will prove an asset as we undertake this critical phase of the Coire Glas project.

“Coire Glas is one of the most significant engineering projects to take place in the UK for many years and this was reflected in the quality of the tenders SSE Renewables received for the Exploratory Works.

“With STRABAG UK in place, we can increase our focus on the local supply chain and making sure that Coire Glas provides a legacy of jobs and investment for businesses in the area. We look forward to proceeding with the exploratory works later this year and taking another significant step forward in the development of Coire Glas.”

Colin Niccolls, Technical Director at STRABAG UK, said: “We are delighted to be part of the Coire Glas pumped hydro storage scheme and particularly pleased that our cultures of technical innovation and collaboration were recognised by SSE Renewables. We are looking forward to working closely with all stakeholders on this exciting scheme, that will help the UK towards achieving the target of net zero carbon emissions.”

More details of the Coire Glas project can be found at: www.coireglas.com.