Renewables, Conservation and Green Policies

For over 100 years Ardkinglas has been using some form of green energy. Electricity originally came from a private hydro-electric scheme on the River Kinglas. The central heating system was originally coal-fired but is now run off a ground source heat pump, drawing a natural heat via an 18m borehole. The many open fires in the house burn sustainable hardwoods from the Estate Policies.

2008 sees the commissioning of 9 wind turbines which will generate electricity above Clachan in a joint venture with Argyll Estates and Iberdrolla. We have supported a new woodchip production unit, being developed by a local charity.

We continue to try and do our business in as environmentally friendly way as possible. The Woodland Garden has been awarded a bronze award by The Green Tourism business scheme. The estate supports a local plastic recycling scheme and, in conjunction with the Tree Shop, Loch Fyne Oysters and the local council is investigating a "Rocket" accelerated composter.