Balbeg Estate Environmental Awards

At Balbeg Estate, we’re proud to lead by example when it comes to sustainability. From renewable energy to reforestation through the planting of over 150,000 trees, our commitment to the environment is at the heart of how we operate.

We are delighted to have been recognised with multiple awards, including winning the inaugural Climate Change Award and being acknowledged in the “Quality Timber” category for the newly planted Bennan Hill at the Scottish Finest Woods Awards 2021. In the same year, we also received the prestigious Iver Salvesen Award for Combatting Climate Change at the Scottish Land & Estates Helping it Happen Awards – recognising our efforts to create a greener, more sustainable future.

Hydro Electric Scheme

Installed in 2012, our 27kW hydro scheme on the Balbeg Burn generates enough electricity to power up to 20 homes. The water travels 500m underground from the hillside to the turbine house, harnessing a 30-metre drop to produce clean, renewable energy. Any surplus is exported to the national grid.

You can see the water intake whilst visiting us.

Biomass Boiler

Our entire estate is heated by a highly efficient 199kW woodchip biomass boiler, installed in 2014. Fuelled by woodchip sourced just 2 miles away, the system provides hot water and heating across all properties — significantly reducing our carbon footprint.

Electrical Car Charging Points

We offer three EV charging points for guests: two at Balcraig House and one at Rabbie Burns Lodge, making it even easier for visitors to travel sustainably.