Energy company looks to renewable future with plans to build biomass plant

ENERGY company Centrica has announced plans to build a new biomass power station in North Lincolnshire.

The plant, which would be built on brownfield land next to its existing gas-fired power station at Brigg, would provide enough renewable energy to supply more than 200,000 homes – equivalent to four towns the size of Scunthorpe – the firm said yesterday.

It would employ up to 50 full-time staff and more than 500 people at the peak of construction.

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Subject to public consultations and approval by the Planning Inspectorate, work could start in early 2014 with the site being operational three years later.

Paul Dalton, generation manager at the existing Brigg Power Station, said: “The Brigg gas-fired power station has been operating in the area for nearly 20 years, providing the region with reliable power.

“As we look to secure new sources of renewable energy in the UK, Brigg provides an ideal opportunity to create power and jobs for decades to come. The project would create around 50 permanent jobs on site, as well as around 500 during the construction phase and is a welcome energy investment in North Lincolnshire.”

The company plans to deliver the biomass mostly by rail to minimise the impact of traffic generated by the new site, and the proposals include the development of a new rail unloading facility alongside the existing rail line, which lies to the south of the gas-fired power station.

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The company added: “One thing we understand is that it’s essential to listen to the views of the local community. We will be holding two informal public exhibitions on 25 and 26 May as part of our commitment to consult with the local community, and we welcome all thoughts and opinions from local interest groups, bodies and residents on the proposal.

“We will hold formal exhibitions during the summer ahead of our application to the Planning Inspectorate.”