CHANGES have been proposed to improve the efficiency of a hydroelectric plant at the North-East's largest reservoir.

The plant, at Kielder Water, Northumberland, generates electricity from water passing through turbines in the reservoir's dam.

It is operated by energy company RWEnpower, which has been consulting on changes with reservoir operator Northumbrian Water and the Environment Agency.

Electricity produced by the turbines feeds into the National Grid and the proposed changes would alter the timing and extent of releases of water, making the system more flexible and better able to meet the demands placed upon it.

John Hogger, of the Environment Agency, said: "We think that these proposals strike a balance between improving the efficiency of renewable power generation and the protection of the Tyne fishery, which is among the best in England. They would make the plant more efficient."

Concerns have been raised about the effect of changing water levels in the Tyne when water is released.

But Mr Hogger said the proposed changes would lead to a steadier flow of water, rather than sudden releases.

He said: "The proposed changes will provide more peaks and troughs, creating a more natural flow - rather like a spell of heavy rain followed by a dry spell."

David Bevan, of RWEnpower, said: "The proposals, if implemented, could increase the annual generation at Kielder Power station by about ten per cent, enough to provide 400 homes with electricity for a year, resulting in a net reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of about 1,300 tonnes, equivalent to six million car miles."

David Hall, Northumbrian Water leisure and commercial business manager, said: "Northumbrian Water looks forward to implementing a new water release programme, agreed by the Environment Agency, bringing overall benefit to the Tyne, its many users, and the production of further renewable energy from Kielder reservoir."

As part of the consultation process, the proposals were outlined at a meeting in Hexham at which about 60 representatives from interest groups were present, including those from fishing and watersports organisations.

The event was organised by the Tyne Rivers Trust, which is working on proposals for improvements to the river and its tributaries, to be published later this year.

Project manager Archie Ruggles-Brise said the trust welcomed the proposed changes to the hydropower system at Kielder.

He said: "This can be beneficial. It is the first step towards developing a system that has minimal impact on the river."

Under the proposals, releases will also be able to be made, with the agreement of the Environment Agency, to accommodate specific river users, such as the canoeing rally in November and coarse fishing matches in summer. A website will keep river users informed about releases.

It is expected that, if approved, the changes will be formally adopted in the autumn.

Published: 25/04/2006