Hydropower scheme water releases
We regulate the management of water releases on SSE’s larger scale hydropower schemes in Scotland.
The release of a block of water from a dam or other impoundment is known as a freshet. Water release aids fish movements up or down a river system and benefits the general ecology of the watercourse.
Permit conditions require that the dates, times, and quantities of water released are agreed in writing annually. We also consult recreational users and fishery interests.
2026 SSE freshet schedule
The 2026 SSE freshet schedule (Open Document Format, 26 kB) features information on conditions and release frequency for locations including:
- River Lyon (Stronuich Dam)
- Loch Awe (at Barrage)
- River Cassley (Duchally) and River Brora (Dalnessie)
- River Conon (Luichart), River Meig (Meig), River Orrin (Orrin), Black water (Vaich Dam or Glascarnoch Dam)
- River Farrar (Beannachran)
- River Moriston (Cluanie), River Moriston (Dundreggan), River Garry (Invergarry)
- River Garry (Perthshire, at Garry Intake), River Tummel (Clunie), River Tummel (Dunalastair), River Errochty (Errochty Dam), and Allt Glas Choire (at intake)
- River Shira
- Kingairloch, Loch Uisge Dam
Learn more about water levels.
The SSE freshet schedule is published as an Open Document file to support accessibility. If you require an alternative format please email equalities@sepa.org.uk.