Major milestone reached in £80 million refurbishment as first of two new turbine generating units is commissioned and returned to commercial operation
Repowering will extend the 45MW power station's operational life by at least 40 years
SSE has reached a major milestone in its £80 million refurbishment of Lochay Power Station in Perthshire, with the first of two new turbine generating units installed, commissioned and returned to commercial operation.
Originally commissioned in 1958, the 45MW station is undergoing a major refurbishment to improve its efficiency, output and extend its operational life by at least 40 years.
The commissioning of the first new turbine generating unit (Unit 1) represents a significant step forward in the multi-year programme. As part of the refurbishment, equipment that had been in place since the station was first commissioned almost 70 years ago has been removed and replaced, including the installation of a completely new turbine and generator.
Unit 1 began generating electricity again in late September, for the first time since being taken out of service for refurbishment in April 2025. Commissioning has since been completed and the new generating unit handed back to operational teams.
Robert Bryce, Director of Hydro at SSE Renewables, said:
"Commissioning the first of Lochay's two new turbine generating units is a major milestone for everyone involved in the refurbishment project. It's a real testament to the hard work and expertise of our teams and the various contractors involved in delivering such a complex programme, from dismantling equipment that had been in place since the station was first commissioned to installing and commissioning a completely new turbine and generator.
"Returning Unit 1 to commercial operation is an important step towards securing Lochay's future for at least another 40 years. With the next phase of the refurbishment due to get under way in Spring next year, we'll be building on the experience and lessons from the work completed so far."
With Unit 1 now returned to operation, both Unit 1 and Unit 2 will be available for commercial operation over the winter period. Lochay will then be taken out of service in spring 2027 to allow the next phase of the refurbishment programme on Unit 2, including the installation of the second new turbine generating unit, to begin.
The overall refurbishment programme is expected to be completed in 2028, the year in which Lochay marks its 70th anniversary, supporting SSE's wider programme to modernise its hydro fleet and maximise renewable generation from its existing assets.
Alongside the refurbishment, SSE continues to work with and support the local community, including through engagement with local schools. Recent activity has focused on helping young people learn more about opportunities and careers in STEM.