Hydro-power in the National Park

History could repeat itself in the Dales if the results of a study into small-scale hydro electricity power are taken forward by landowners and local communities.

The Dales has a long history of harnessing waterpower for its traditional industries and many of its villages had their own electricity schemes in the early 1900s. Today, with increasing energy costs, Government incentives and concerns about carbon dioxide emissions, there is growing local interest to examine the hydro potential of former mill sites and to investigate new ones.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is keen to see the development of appropriate small-scale hydro-power sites to meet local needs, and the restoration of former sites also offers an opportunity to conserve important local buildings and structures.

To stimulate further development, Inter Hydro Technology (IHT) Ltd, of Kendal, has investigated 49 potential sites for the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and their study can be downloaded using the link below. IHT Ltd’s report should be read in conjunction with a report to the National Park Authority, July 2009, also available below.

Report by Inter Hydro Technology Ltd

Report to the National Park Authority

Appendix 1 to the National Park Authority report

Appendix 2 to the National Park Authority report

The study makes a first estimate of a site’s potential power outputs and its economic viability, and gives a preliminary assessment of any regulatory and environmental barriers to development. More detailed work involving environmental impacts and constraints is required to make a full assessment of the sites.

IHT Ltd conclude there are many worthwhile opportunities for hydro power in the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the economic viability of some sites may be improved on by further investigation. For example, there are several sites that could become more viable if landowners were able to undertake some of the construction themselves.

Several landowners, developers and local communities have already shown interest in the study.

Further details can be obtained by emailing Andrea Burden.

YDNPA small-scale hydro power feasibility fund

Grants are available to landowners, business and community groups for feasibility studies for small-scale hydro power in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The fund is not generally available to private householders unless wider public benefits can be demonstrated.

Grants rates for voluntary groups are up to 75% and up to 50% for all other applicants, in each case up to a maximum of £5,000. For further details download the following:

• Hydro power feasibility fund terms and conditions

• Hydro power feasibility fund application form

Please contact Andrea Burden on 01969 652342 or email Andrea.Burden@yorkshiredales.org.uk before submitting your application.

Further information

Further information on hydro power is available on the following web pages:

• British Hydro Power Association

• British Hydro Power Association guide to small-scale hydro-electric schemes

• The Environment Agency - information about Hydro power

• The Environment Agency - Hydropower: A guide for you and your community

• The Environment Agency - Good practice guidelines for hydro schemes