A traditional woolmill in Moray is set to give its more than 150-year-old waterwheel a new lease of life, using it to generate power and cut energy bills.
Using more than £77,000 of funding, Knockando Woolmill is planning to bring the Victorian waterwheel which once powered the mill back into use to generate electricity.
The waterwheel was installed during the 1860s and, using the power of the nearby Knockando Burn, drove the mill from at least 1871 until the arrival of electricity in 1949.
However, after lying dormant for more than 75 years, the waterwheel is set to become a key part of a modern hydroelectric power system capable of generating up to 67kWh per day.
The project will also incorporate scalable battery storage, allowing energy generated during higher winter flows to be stored and used during peak production periods.
The project has received financial backing from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Berry Burn Community Fund and others.
“This project represents the perfect meeting point between heritage and innovation,” Lady Irwin, chairperson of the Knockando Woolmill Trust, said.
“The waterwheel has always been central to the story of Knockando Woolmill and restoring it allows us not only to reconnect with our industrial past, but to safeguard the mill’s future through renewable energy generation.”
Welcoming thousands of visitors from around the world each year, the Grade A listed mill plays a vital role in rural tourism and local employment.
Merchandising manager Emily Scott said the transformed waterwheel would help to show how heritage businesses can offer cutting-edge solutions to sustainability problems.
“Restoring the wheel is about more than reducing energy costs,” Ms Scott added.
“It allows us to reinvest in conserving Scotland’s textile heritage, enhance our visitor experience and continue educating future generations about how historic industry can contribute to a greener future.”
The mill has also announced a partnership with utilities firm Octopus Energy, which offers “smart” technology allowing the mill to manage its energy use and buy back power generated by the waterwheel.
Knockando Woolmill is currently open for the season, including its on-site cafe and shop.
