FOI Request - Extraction of High Levels of Water from River Spey

Request 101003682674

Moray Council has published a program/protocol for hydrogen production in Moray.

1. Has the council commissioned any scientific research studies to ascertain any adverse economic and/or environmental risks from the extraction of very high levels of water from the River Spey valley to support this new proposed industry?

a) If so, would it be possible to receive a copy of it or any other similar document that the Council may refer to when considering any planning application for such a production plant.

2. Does the Council have a list of preferred sites for any development plans for a hydrogen production plant in Moray and not on the coast?

Response 03-01-2025

The Moray Hydrogen Strategy sets out how the development of a green hydrogen economy in Moray could support the transition away from burning fossil fuels and create quality local jobs. It is available at http://www.moray.gov.uk/downloads/file148757.pdf

The strategy was updated in 2024 and is available at http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_136444.html under the dropdown banner Supporting Moray to reduce its emissions.

1. Has the council commissioned any scientific research studies to ascertain any adverse economic and/or environmental risks from the extraction of very high levels of water from the River Spey valley to support this new proposed industry?
      No. Relevant details would be required to be supplied by any applicant as part of the planning application process.

If so, would it be possible to receive a copy of it or any other similar document that the Council may refer to when considering any planning application for such a production plant.
     Nothing specific to hydrogen projects.

2. Does the Council have a list of preferred sites for any development plans for a hydrogen production plant in Moray and not on the coast?
      No