Scotland moves to transform coal mine into energy park

The park, which is a joint venture between Buccleuch and 2020 Renewables, could become a catalyst for industrial regeneration in the region, Buccleuch said.

John Glen, chief executive officer of Buccleuch, said: “For five years we have been working closely with the local community and Hargreaves Surface Mining to restore and transform the site.”

Pumped storage hydro stores electricity in times of low demand and releases it on to the National Grid in peak demand periods.

“Our vision is to create an energy park that will support local jobs and deliver major new investment in Dumfries and Galloway, and that has taken a step forward today,” Glen added.

Before truly getting off the ground, however, the park requires major financial investment from other partners.

Local MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale Scotland David Mundell said: “I hope this scheme can bring significant long-term energy benefits to Upper Nithsdale and I will work to ensure the continuing discussions with the UK Government can help to secure the scheme’s long-term future.”