Highland Council's Archimedes Screw project on River Ness takes shape as P7 pupil Grace Mackenzie comes up with winning name
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Hydro Ness has been announced as the official name for the new hydroelectric scheme taking shape on the banks of the River Ness.
Grace Mackenzie, a pupil in P7 at Milton of Leys Primary School, submitted the winning name and poster after a competition with more than 100 entries.
The top 10 submissions were announced in November to mark the end of COP26 with each of the posters displayed at the site of the scheme to help inform the public and keep the builders inspired.
The scheme uses twin Archimedes Screws to harness the energy of the River Ness and will generate around 550,000 kWh of renewable electricity annually.
That will power the nearby Aquadome and it is estimated that it will be fully operational in May and within seven or eight years it is expected to recoup the original investment.
The highly recognisable dome structure was designed by local artist Claire Maclean, who was inspired not only by the river and the plants and creatures that call it home but also by the mythology surrounding the Loch Ness monster.
Grace was informed of her achievement during a visit to the construction site earlier today, she said: “I am really excited that my poster won the competition, we loved learning about the Hydro in class and designing the posters. We can’t wait to visit the Hydro Ness when it is open.”
The Highland Council with the support of Science Skills Academy, launched the competition in October last year which asked pupils to design a poster and think up a name which captures the main themes of the project.
The council’s executive chief officer of infrastructure, environment and economy, Malcolm Macleod said: “We are delighted to announce Grace as the winner of the naming competition. Inspiring future generations is a key element of this project and we are thrilled with the creativeness displayed by all the pupils who took part in the competition.
“This competition not only aimed to find a timeless name for the scheme but an imaginative poster which is captured perfectly by Grace’s submission.”
SSA project manager at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Emma Robertson said: “The hydroelectric scheme is an innovative project that provides an excellent opportunity for young people to learn about renewable energy generation while demonstrating career opportunities and pathways. Our congratulations to Grace for submitting the winning name and poster.”
Inverness South Ward Councillors Carolyn Caddick, Ken Gowans, Andrew Jarvie and Duncan Macpherson said: “We would like to offer a big congratulations to Grace for crafting the winning name and poster.
“The council received over 100 submissions from schools across Highland showcasing the talent of young people in the region. Grace should be very proud of her fantastic achievement."
Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Trish Robertson said: “When it is complete, the Hydro Ness will act as a ‘live’ STEM learning hub, presenting a unique opportunity for Highland students to access and appreciate small scale ‘run of the river’ hydro, and learn how green, sustainable engineering can applied in life.
“A big well done and congratulations to Grace for her excellent name and poster.”
As well as the privilege of naming the unique, landmark attraction, the winning pupil will receive a complimentary activity for the entire class provided by one of the project's key partners, High Life Highland.
Chief Executive of High Life Highland, Steve Walsh said: “Inspiring future generations and promoting sustainability are key priorities for High Life Highland, so we are absolutely delighted to be involved in this project and I am really excited for Grace and the wider public to visit Inverness Leisure Centre and see the site benefitting from the renewable electricity generated from Hydro Ness.”
Related Story – Top 10 entries for the River Ness hydro naming competition announced by Highland Council
