Archimedes Screw to generate hydro-power in Inverness
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The local authority intends to install an Archimedes screw at Whin Park Lade in Inverness to generate hydro-electric power.
The 100KW turbine will control the water flow from the River Ness through to Whin Park and will be able to generate 672,529 KWh.
The renewable energy project could generate an income for the council of around £90,000 to £120,000 a year at current prices. The annual operating cost will be in the region of £15,000.
As well as powering the equivalent of 150 homes, the electricity could also be used to supply council buildings and local venues including the Aquadome and the archive centre, generating further savings.
The Archimedes screw installed at Whin Park Lade is expected to be 4.2m in diameter and allow a controlled water flow.
The council added that it will also be provided with sufficient screening to protect fish from being sucked into it and that it will have a low environmental impact.
“This modern, innovative project provides an excellent opportunity for the council to generate income and renewable energy and make savings,” said the chairman of the council’s places committee, Councillor Allan Henderson.
“The Archimedes screw is a fascinating piece of engineering and technology which in itself should be a feature of significant interest and may hopefully inspire young scientists of tomorrow.”
Highland Council has contracted AMECFW and senior specialist in Archimedean crew hydropower systems, Mannpower Consulting Limited, to develop the project design.
It expects to submit its planning application for the installation of the Torvean Micro Hydro Scheme Archimedes Screw sometime this winter.
The council has vowed to include consultation with relevant statutory consultees.
The Archimedes screw is one of the world’s most ancient machines and is traditionally attributed to the famous Greek inventor Archimedes, who was born around 287 BC.
However, some researchers believe it could have been in use even earlier than that.
Whoever invented it, the Archimedes screw was already being used thousands of years ago to help raise water from river channels to irrigate farmland and drain low lying areas – uses that it is still being put to today.
