The Energy Service supported the construction of the Bonwm Hydro scheme which will generate clean electricity for the local area.
Summary
The Bonwm Hydro scheme is a 100kW run-of-river hydropower project near Corwen, Denbighshire, developed by Corwen Electricity Co-operative in 2023. The scheme uses water from the Nant Llechog stream to generate clean electricity for the local area and has potential to link with the Corwen Energy Local Club, allowing residents to purchase electricity at reduced rates.
Our support
Feasibility advice, grant funding support, and assistance securing planning consent, abstraction and impoundment licences, and a lease agreement with the landowner. The Energy Service also helped secure £416,000 for construction.
Technology solution
- 100 kW run-of-river hydro system.
- Average annual generation of 310 MWh.
- Designed for integration with local energy markets.
Investment
- £416,000 secured from the Welsh Development Bank and other funding, with support from the Energy Service.
Impact
- Estimated 1,000 tCO₂e displaced over the 35-year system lifetime.
- £220,000 in community surpluses projected over 26 years.
- Local employment supported through construction contracts.
- Strengthens community energy ownership and resilience.
We wanted to build a scheme that would be locally owned and bring benefits to the community. Having worked previously with the Energy Service on another scheme in the town, we approached the team on our proposed run-of-river hydro project at Bonwm. Once again, the professional and close support from the Energy Service was vital to getting the scheme over the line.
Michael Paice, Chairman, Corwen Electricity Co-operative.
