The North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board (1943–1990) was founded to design, construct and manage hydroelectricity projects in the Highlands of Scotland. It is regarded as one of the major achievements of Scottish politician Thomas Johnston, who chaired the board from 1945 to 1959.

Edward MacColl, later Sir Edward MacColl, was a Scottish engineer, whose greatest achievements were made during the time he was Vice Chairman and chief executive officer for the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board. He was knighted in 1949, and died on 15 July 1951, the day before his wife Lady Margaret MacColl was due to perform the formal opening of the Tummel hydro-electric power scheme.