DRAX AT 50: Celebrating energy, jobs and decarbonisation in new film
Energy security, jobs, skills and decarbonisation are the themes of a new three part documentary titled 50 years of Drax Power Station.
Renewable energy leader Drax has launched the film in partnership with The Yorkshire Post, to celebrate its role in powering homes and businesses for half a century.
It reflects on the Selby power station’s achievements alongside Drax’s vision for the future.
WATCH : View the documentary series here.
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Since Drax Power Station first began generating power in 1974, it has become a cornerstone of the UK’s energy infrastructure, now producing 9% of the nation’s renewable electricity – the largest single source of renewable power in the country.
The documentary shows how Drax has kept the country’s lights on for half a century and continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring energy security for the UK.
As the UK’s largest power station, Drax Power Station has been a critical asset for national energy security and its sustainable biomass power generation provides a stable, flexible energy source for when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine.
“We’re proud to look back on the incredible journey of Drax Power Station over the last 50 years,” said Bruce Heppenstall, Drax Power Station’s Plant Director.
“This documentary series showcases how we have evolved from a coal-fired plant to a world leader in renewable energy, while also preparing for the future of renewable energy generation with our innovative bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.
“The short films provide a unique insight into our commitment to decarbonisation, our community engagement and the role we play in driving forward the UK’s net-zero ambitions.”
The power station has also provided significant economic benefits for communities across the north of England during its operational life.
The documentary highlights the thousands of jobs created over the years, focusing on the plans for further job creation in the area.
The deployment of BECCS technology at Drax could create up to 10,000 jobs during construction and support the development of a world-leading skills base in the Humber region, strengthening the local economy and ensuring a pipeline of talent for the future.
Drax is set to become one of the first power stations in the world to deploy BECCS technology, which has the potential to remove 8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually. This breakthrough innovation would make Drax a vital contributor to the UK’s decarbonisation goals, while continuing to provide clean electricity for millions of homes.
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