Subtitle: The first of two new generating units at Lochay Power Station in Perthshire has returned to commercial operation, as SSE begins a major programme to modernise the facility and extend its working life by at least 40 years.
First New Turbine Returns to Commercial Operation
SSE has reached a significant milestone in its £80 million refurbishment of Lochay Power Station in Perthshire, with the first of two new turbine generating units successfully commissioned and returned to commercial operation.
The 45MW hydroelectric power station, which first began operating in 1958, is undergoing a major programme of improvements designed to increase efficiency, enhance output and extend its operational life by at least another 40 years.
The return of Unit 1 marks an important step in the multi-year project, replacing equipment that had been in place since the station originally opened. The refurbishment has included the removal of ageing machinery and the installation of a completely new turbine and generator.
Modernising Existing Hydroelectric Infrastructure
Unit 1 began generating electricity again in late September 2026, following its removal from service for refurbishment in April 2025. Commissioning has since been completed, with the new generating unit formally handed back to SSE’s operational teams.
The project demonstrates how investment in existing renewable energy infrastructure can help improve generation capacity and extend the useful life of established power stations.
Rather than relying solely on the development of new generating sites, modernisation projects such as Lochay can help make better use of existing assets, supporting the UK’s wider renewable energy ambitions.
£80 Million Investment to Secure Lochay’s Future
The £80 million refurbishment forms part of SSE’s wider programme to modernise its hydroelectric fleet and maximise renewable electricity generation from existing facilities.
Robert Bryce, Director of Hydro at SSE Renewables, said the successful commissioning of the first new generating unit represented a major achievement for the teams and contractors involved.
He highlighted the complexity of removing equipment that had been operating for almost seven decades and replacing it with a completely new turbine and generator.
Bryce also emphasised the importance of returning Unit 1 to commercial operation, describing it as an important step towards securing Lochay’s future for at least another 40 years.
Second Phase of Refurbishment Planned for 2027
With Unit 1 back in operation, both generating units will be available for commercial operation over the winter period. The next phase of the refurbishment is scheduled to begin in spring 2027, when Lochay will be taken out of service to allow work on Unit 2 to progress.
This stage will include the installation of the second new turbine generating unit, building on the experience gained during the first phase of the project.
The overall refurbishment programme is expected to be completed in 2028, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of Lochay Power Station.
Once finished, the improvements are expected to provide the facility with a significantly extended operational life, helping it continue contributing to renewable electricity generation in Scotland for decades to come.
Supporting Skills and the Local Community
Alongside the engineering work, SSE continues to engage with and support the local community around Lochay. Recent initiatives have included working with local schools to introduce young people to opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The refurbishment also highlights the specialist engineering skills and contractor expertise required to maintain and modernise important energy infrastructure.
As SSE progresses towards the final stage of the project, the investment at Lochay demonstrates the continuing role of established hydroelectric power stations in supporting a more efficient and reliable renewable energy system.
Source: SSE.
Images: SSE.