Scotland is littered with hydro schemes – from ‘old’ run of river such as those on middle Clyde and the massive ‘power from the glens’ schemes in the ’60s, to the last decade of new hydro, using highland burns and steep, smaller schemes.
The immediate construction effects are obvious. Within a couple of years they fade, within 5 you can barely tell. The ongoing impact is in lower flows, but again these are well balanced.
Personally, I think hydro has a massive part to play in our energy supply, and I would rather have it than nuclear.
Having said that, there is a challenge for companies to be held to account on making the schemes appropriate and sustainable – not just most profit.
Odd comment about Scotland….