A soon-to-be-implemented hydro electric scheme could power one of Glasgow’s (United Kingdom) most historic landmarks, Pollock House. Sustainable Glasgow, the Council’s initiative to bring about a sustainable future, is drawing up plans for a water power project in Pollok Country Park which will generate sustainable energy by harnessing the power of the White Cart river. Installation of turbines and the connection to Pollok House will cost around £250,000. Revenue from the sale of electricity partnered with the Feed-in Tariff (a sustainable energy cash-back scheme) will equate to around £47,000 a year, meaning that the system will pay for itself within five years.

Councillor Alistair Watson Executive Member for Sustainability & Transport said: "Harnessing the power of rivers to generate clean, sustainable energy is an exciting proposition for the city and this project is actually going back to the future, as tools in the sawmill were originally powered by a water wheel”.

Glasgow is committed to a low carbon future and aims to cut its carbon emissions by 30 percent, making it one of the most sustainable cities in Europe by 2020. "Sustainable Glasgow is adopting a wide range of energy efficiency and carbon reduction initiatives. Locally produced energy is key to improving the city's resilience, as buildings are not dependent on the national grid. Sustainable and renewable energy projects also help reduce our carbon emissions as well as providing affordable heat and power for businesses and residents," said Mr. Watson.

For more information, visit the Glasgow City Council website.