Go to the Main Scottish Cave and Mine Database Search Page

Inverawe Tunnel [Surge Shaft]

Inverawe, Loch Etive, Argyllshire.

Shaft to tunnel, Hydro electric scheme.

"The [Lochawe] power station is above ground and has a pitched roof. A surge shaft to protect the pipeline is located to the north-east of the power station, on higher ground. The Awe barrage regulates flow on the river, and diverts water into the tunnel supplying the power station. Two radial gates allow it to be used to control flood flows on the river, and it has been designed so that in extreme conditions, flood water can flow over the top of the structure without causing a breach. Under normal conditions, compensation flow to maintain the habitat in the River Awe below the barrage passes through a compensation set, which generates additional power. To enable migrating fish to access Loch Awe, the structure includes a Borland fish pass. Both stations were commissioned in 1963." [Wiki]

Alternative Names: None recorded.

Notes: Awe Barrage (tunnel inlet) located at Pass of Brander [NN 0459 2869].

Tunnel tailrace located along E bank of River Awe at [NN 0167 3214].

Given length approx (straight line from barrage to shaft).

Hydrographic Feeds: River Awe

Hydrographic Resurgences: River Awe