Friday 16 November 2012

Merseryside energy from waste plant wins permit

A new 9 MW energy from waste plant in Merseyside has won an environmental permit, meaning it will be built once it finds financial backing.

Energy from waste business Energos got the permit from the Environment Agency to run the small advanced conversion technology (ACT) facility at Knowsley Industrial Park.

The 96,000 tonne-a-year Knowsley Energy Recovery Facility will partly use non-recyclable waste from Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority (MRWA), as well as ‘refuse derived fuel’ (RDF). The process converts non-recyclable rubbish into a gas using a two-stage thermal treatment process. The gas is then fully burnt to create heat, which is used to produce steam and electricity.

Nick Dawber, Energos Managing Director said: “This is an environmentally responsible, community sized energy from waste solution that will ensure the diversion of biodegradable material from landfill. Our facilities generate renewable energy and displace the use of fossil fuels.

“The facility could be completed by 2015. Despite the difficulties in the financial markets, we are making good progress in securing finance for this £60m project."

Steve Molyneux, Environment Manager for the Environment Agency said: "We’ve sought comments from other organisations, including Knowsley Council, Knowsley NHS, the Health Protection Agency and local people. The Environment Agency is confident that the proposed energy from waste facility will not harm human health or the environment."

The first phase of work on the plant has been completed and the second phase of work is expected to start in 2013.