FREE CLEAN TECH EXPERTISE TO HELP ISLE OF RUM
A positive future for Rum
Alongside the four new homes having been built for new residents to Rum, plans for the restoration of Kinloch Castle are moving apace. This would bring more employment opportunities for the local area both during renovation work, afterwards within the castle and for related businesses.
Ewan MacDonald, Chair Kinloch Castle Friends Association (KCFA) said; “In preparation for this Synergie Environ have generously developed and donated detailed recommendations for energy efficiency and low carbon energy generation for the Kinloch Castle Friends Association (KCFA). This invaluable report builds on information already received. The hydro electric scheme was created by Sir George Bullough in 1900 when he was having Kinloch Castle built and the whole island has run on hydro power backed up by diesel generators ever since. Despite upgrades, the old system is showing serious signs of age and has required regular use of the diesel generators for much of each year. The report recommendations offer an excellent way forward for the whole island energy provision to ensure Rum can move once more into a green future. The renovations at the castle would incorporate as many energy efficient methods as possible. It is also recommended that a heat pump, powered by the island grid, could be installed to cater for 100% of the Castle’s heat demand, allowing the castle’s heating also to be free from fossil fuels. This is an exciting prospect. Once funding is secured for the Castle restoration, KCFA are looking forward to working together with the Isle of Rum Community Trust and Nature Scotland on their respective energy requirements. KCFA are very grateful to Synergie Environ for developing recommendations for environmental excellence for the Castle.”
Kinloch Castle was built from 1897 to 1901 to high standards of that day incorporating modern technology such as early air conditioning and combined bath/showers. There are many Arts and Crafts touches throughout the building and the stained glass is particularly fine. Also of interest is the rare Orchestrion which is also in need of restoration. Nature Scot, the current owners, have no operational use for the castle and KCFA are seeking investors to take forward the exciting project of Kinloch Castle, aiming to create a very special employment and income generating tourist facility on this beautiful and interesting island.
More information on the project can be found here: http://kinlochcastlefriends.org/kcfa/
Uisdean Fraser, Managing Director Synergie Environ said: “As a company we were delighted to support this worthwhile restoration project and that our expertise could be put to good use. Special mention to the team Alan Russell, Ewan McKenzie, Matt Chadbourn and Sam Beaton who worked with KCFA to provide free support to drive forward their vision for clean tech solutions for the Castle.”
