A giant pipeline near Yr Wyddfa continues to generate power for rural Wales, dividing opinions on its visual impact.
They built the station back in 1906. It powered the slate industry back then. This served Oakley, Dinorwic, and Pen-yr-Orsedd quarries. It was Britain’s first use of alternating current.
This station has run the longest non-stop in the UK. It still powers homes and businesses today. Some photographers dislike the pipeline. A campaign tried to bury it, but the effort failed, despite the nice location.
Many think it ruins the view. They see it from the A498 roadside stop between Pen-y-Pass and Llyn Gwynant. The 2km pipe feeds the Cwm Dyli station.
One photographer dislikes the pipeline’s impact, saying it mars a potentially beautiful landscape. Another admires its strange beauty alongside pylons, wind turbines, and nature.
It seems the pipe will stay for years to come. RWE finished a two-year maintenance project on the station. The plant uses water from Llyn Llydaw. This lake gets lots of rain annually, making it vital for sustainable energy production.
RWE worked with Jennings during the repairs. Challenges arose from the rough terrain. They needed helicopters to deliver materials. Jennings worked with mountain rescue for safety and made a rescue plan together.
RWE and Jennings donated £10,000 to the rescue team. This recognized their critical efforts regarding safety. The team is vital daily for saving lives too.
Keith Moorcroft manages RWE hydro plants. He calls Cwm Dyli a renewable energy cornerstone, reflecting engineering excellence. He is grateful for the teamwork involved in the project.
Danny Jones runs Jennings Building. The project was remote and challenging. Terrain was rugged for machinery and people, and the weather changed quickly and was extreme.