The scope of feasibility studies varies enormously and is dependent on the nature of the site and the potential.
This would take the development of a scheme to the point where the business case, benefits and risks are well understood and a decision may be taken whether to proceed with applications for statutory consents.
However, the key elements usually include:
- Liaison and negotiation with the statutory bodies – SEPA, SNH, Fishery Boards, Planning Department
- Flow measurement
- Environmental and habitat surveys – possibilities include; otter, bats and red squirrel
- Topographical Survey – to produce a plan of the site
- Outline design of the scheme
- Seeking an opinion on the prospects for a grid connection and probable costs
- Civil Engineering opinion on the construction issues and budget coasts
- Budget quotations on the costs of key elements of equipment – turbine, generator and control system
- Preparation of a construction method statement describing how the project will be carried out
- Development of energy production model and income projections, thus business case
- Identification of risks, and mitigations that might be applied
- A scenario on a practical way forward with recommendations on next steps
- Development of Supporting Information – essential documentation for abstraction and planning applications
Please contact us and we will work out a practical set of steps appropriate to your potential site, incorporating any information you may already have.
