The Princess Royal visited the Cruachan ‘Hollow Mountain’ Power Station on Monday as part of her most recent tour of Argyll, to unveil a commemorative plaque marking the 60th anniversary of its opening.
Carved into the granite interior of Ben Cruachan, the plant was the first large-scale reversible pumped storage hydro facility in the world when it was opened by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1965.
Today it continues to play a vital role in balancing the electricity grid and supporting the UK’s transition to net zero through storing excess renewable electricity at times of low demand.
The unveiling was conducted by HRH The Princess Royal, who was welcomed to the site by Will Gardiner, Chief Executive Officer of Drax Group, alongside other Drax
Will Gardiner, Drax Group CEO, said: “Cruachan is an engineering marvel that has stood the test of time. As Britain builds the clean energy system of the future, flexible assets like Cruachan will be absolutely central to keeping the lights on. We are deeply honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness to mark this milestone, and to celebrate the generations of skilled people who have operated and maintained this extraordinary station over the past six decades.”
Princess Anne concluded her visit with a stay at Oban’s Manor House Hotel, even having breakfast with all the other guests, with zero fuss.
Owner Daniel Rogger says she was "incredibly polite" and humble "just like any other guest". Princess Anne had stayed at the Manor House a decade prior, with Mr Rogger saying it was an honour to have her back.
After her stay, Anne flew out from Oban Airport in the morning.
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