Zero Waste Scotland provides funding for the award-winning Hydro Ness

Photo credit -Airborne Lens and Spirit of the Highland Project

The interpretive content at the award-winning Hydro Ness has received funding and expert support from Zero Waste Scotland.

Zero Waste Scotland, which is focused on leading Scotland to use products and resources sustainably, has not only provided a financial contribution to the project but has also provided content which will enhance the learning experience on site.

The not-for-profit environmental organisation has been working with the project team to develop engaging content for the climate change and sustainability messaging on site, with the aim of helping Hydro Ness visitors embrace the environmental, economic, and social benefits of a circular economy.

Helen Lavery, Regional Engagement Partner at Zero Waste Scotland said: “We all know that climate change is happening and there’s an urgent need to tackle it – but many of us are also unsure where to start and what actions will have the greatest impact. The good news is there’s a lot we can all do to curb our contribution to the climate crisis, and it’s great to see that information showcased at Hydro Ness.

“The circular economy is, ultimately, making things last. It’s about really valuing the goods and materials out there already and keeping them in high-value use for as long as possible. It’s the greatest tool we have available to help us tackle climate change, and we’re immensely proud to be pioneering that message in partnership with the Highland Council through Hydro Ness.”

The visitor experience at the Hydro Ness will also cover key messages relating to environment and ecology, renewable energy, and climate change and sustainability. The site will also act as a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning hub, allowing people of all ages to see how green electricity is generated up close.

The 93kW hydroelectric scheme on the banks of the River Ness, which has recently been awarded the ‘Best Onshore Renewable Energy Project’ at the 2022 Highlands & Islands Renewable Energy Awards, is now fully operational. It has been generating electricity for the Inverness Leisure Centre since the beginning of June 2022.

Hydro Ness will generate on average 550,000 kWh of renewable energy each year, supplying about 50% of the electricity demand of the Inverness Leisure Centre.

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of The Highland Council’s Infrastructure and Economy Committee said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with Zero Waste Scotland to develop the climate change and sustainability content. Zero Waste Scotland are doing incredible work across Scotland with individuals and businesses to help reduce our consumption.”

“The messaging around climate change and sustainability on the Hydro Ness site is vital to empower people to make small changes in their lives. This is a critical time in how we tackle climate change and we need to be able to work together to achieve our ambitious climate goals”

Hydro Ness will be open to the public from 12.30 pm on Thursday 28th July and there will be a special performance by SURGE, a project which develops street arts, physical theatre and circus in Scotland, from 1.30pm and 3.30pm. Find out more about the opening event here