One of Scotland’s oldest hydroelectric power stations has been restored following a £2m refurbishment by Drax, helping preserve the historic facility while supporting its continued role in renewable electricity generation.
Tongland Power Station, near Kirkcudbright, forms part of the Galloway Hydro Scheme, a network of dams, reservoirs and power stations developed during the 1930s. The six hydroelectric facilities across the scheme have generated renewable electricity for Scotland for almost 90 years.
The refurbishment focused on restoring the exterior of the power station using specialist materials designed to protect the Category A listed building for decades to come. Historic Environment Scotland recognises Tongland for its significance in the development of hydropower and its “finely detailed modernist classical design”.
Alongside work on the building’s façade, Drax has upgraded the site’s exhibition space to allow the power station to welcome school visits once again. Further refurbishment of the building’s internal paintwork is scheduled to take place later this year.
Ian Kinnaird, Drax’s FlexGen Assets Director, said: “The Galloway Hydro Scheme has been generating flexible, renewable electricity for 90 years, and this major refurbishment means it will continue to do so for many more years to come.
“This was a complex project, with great care taken by Drax and our contracting partners to protect this historic building during the work. Tongland has been part of Scotland’s energy story for almost a century, so everyone involved should feel incredibly proud to see it looking as good as new.”
The Tongland project forms part of Drax’s wider investment programme across Scotland.
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