Buchanan Community Hydro Scheme

The scheme was initiated by Highland Eco Design (HED) as part of a commercial portfolio of projects across Scotland to be delivered in time for the final tranche of Feed in Tariff.  However, the project was handed over to the community who sought support from Energy4All and Local Energy Scotland to take the project forward.

Buchanan Community Hydro Society, a community benefit society (bencom), was established by Energy4All with representatives from the East Loch Lomond Development Trust. The project is based on land owned by Forestry and Land Scotland and the Montrose Estates.  A lease has been established with both landowners and the Montrose Estates have been particularly supportive of the project.

The project’s financial surpluses will be used to provide community benefit in the Buchanan area.  Everyone living in the Buchanan area is encouraged to become involved.