Skip to content
Project

Renewable energy at Craflwyn and Beddgelert

Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and other mountain peaks with Hafod y Llan estate in the distance at Eryri (Snowdonia) Wales.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and other mountain peaks in Eryri (Snowdonia) Wales | © National Trust Images/Joe Cornish

The farms of Craflwyn and Beddgelert have played a vital role in the National Trust’s wider vision of generating 50% of its energy from renewable sources, with hydroelectrical projects transforming the way power is generated in the region.

Bringing hydroelectricity to Hafod y Llan

A large hydroelectric turbine, sensitively crafted into the Eryri (Snowdonia) landscape at Hafod y Llan farm, with the power produced being sold through our new renewable energy trading company to an energy partner and green electricity supplier.

The project generates around 1,900 MWhr of electricity per year, which is enough to power around 445 homes.

Delivering an ambitious plan

The Eryri (Snowdon) hydro project took 300 tonnes, or a mile, of pipe, six tonnes of turbine and generator kit and more than 100 people to make the project happen. With the added difficulties on the southern face of Snowdon of snow, rain and 600 walkers passing the site per year, it is easy to see how this work was a challenge.

The end result is a hidden hydro capturing half a tonne of water per second, while positively adding to the Trust’s vision for renewables, which has already included 250 small and medium sized renewable energy schemes across England and Wales, including biomass, solar and hydro technology.

These renewable energy plans, alongside other energy conservation work, aim to save an estimated £4 million from the National Trust’s energy bill each year, which can be investing in conservation work across the places we look after.

Gathering the Welsh Mountain sheep along the Afon Cwm Llan on Hafod Y Llan farm, Snowdonia, Wales
Water at Hafod y Llan is generating a renewable energy future | © National Trust Images / Joe Cornish

Making Llyndy Isaf a sustainable farm

Renewable energy was also introduced at neighbouring Llyndy Isaf farm, with the addition of a hydroelectric turbine and a considerable amount of work done on the farmhouse to improve energy efficiency.

The hydro now supplies the farm, the farmhouse and the scholar flat with electricity, which is also used by the two new heat pumps also installed. The project generates approximately 37,000 kWh of electricity per annum – more than the house, flat and farm uses.

Like the first (Eryri) Snowdon hydro, this project results in reduced electricity bills, while generating income from the sale of electricity to other suppliers which can be reinvested in the farm and the surrounding landscape. This renewable generation will also save approximately 18 tonnes of Co2 per year.

Visitors sat in woodland by the Glaslyn river, Craflwyn and Beddgelert, Wales

Donate

Everyone needs nature, now more than ever. Donate today and you could help people and nature to thrive at the places we care for.

You might also be interested in

Shepherd and sheep dogs driving sheep down the Watkin Path at Cwm Llan on Hafod y Llan farm, Snowdonia, Wales
Article
Article

Our work at Hafod y Llan 

Discover how Hafod y Llan is leading the way as a sustainable farm for the future.

Ruined miner's building at Cwm Llan on Hafod Y Llan farm, Snowdonia, Wales, with clouds on the hills in the background
Article
Article

The history of Hafod y Llan 

Find out about the rich history of Hafod y Llan farm in Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales starting in the 12th century.

Three visitors stood under a tree with sunlight shining through the branches on a path at Craflwyn and Beddgelert, Wales
Article
Article

Discover the legend of Gelert 

Discover the tragic tale of Gelert, the faithful hound that gave the village of Beddgelert its name. Walk to the memorial grave on the edge of the village.

A view from Dinas Emrys, Beddgelert, North Wales, looking towards a cloud-covered peak with a tree in the foreground.
Article
Article

Discover the legend of two dragons 

Wales is the home of many myths and legends. One story features the red and white dragons of Dinas Emrys mountain near Craflwyn and Beddgelert. This lofty peak sets the scene for a story of dragons and magic.

Heather and rock outcrops on Hafod Y Llan farm, with Yr Aran summit in the distance, Snowdonia, Wales
Article
Article

Things to see and do at Hafod y Llan 

Discover things to do at Hafod y Llan farm, Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales on the slopes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) including walks and nature to see.