Investigation continues after Cruachan Hydro power station evacuated following 'explosion'

An investigation is continuing after a power station in Argyll and Bute was evacuated after smoke was detected on site.

The incident occurred at the Cruachan Hydro Power Station, located inside Ben Cruachan, on Tuesday.

The site was evacuated, and emergency services were alerted to reports of an explosion, after smoke was detected within the cavern.

There were no reports of any injuries.

The operators of the power station, Drax, confirmed an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is under way.

Both Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service say an investigation is under way.

A company spokesperson said: “Emergency services were called to Cruachan after smoke was detected in the cavern. The site was safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.

“An investigation into the cause of the incident is now under way.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 5.20pm on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, police received a report of an explosion at the Cruachan Power Station, Lochawe, Dalmally.

“There are no reports of anyone injured.

“Inquiries are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances of the incident.”

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service sent four appliances to the scene when the alarm was raised and crews liaised with staff on site before leaving the scene by 8pm.

A Drax spokesperson said: “Emergency services were called to Cruachan after smoke was detected in the cavern.

“The site was safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.

“An investigation into the cause of the incident is now under way.”