Energy Works is an innovative project that is recovering energy from waste more efficiently than previously possible.
- 09 August 2013
Using an entirely new technology known as “Advanced Fluidised Bed Gasification”, the facility generates 25 MW (megawatts) of electricity from 190 kT (kilo-tonnes) of waste each year. The individual components of this technology have previously been proven. However, combining these technologies has never before been carried out in the United Kingdom, making the project extremely innovative. According to the experts, this unprecedented technology also has high development potential and plans are in place for the entire region to benefit.
Raising awareness of renewable energy
An energy academy with two postgraduate positions is being established in Hull University with the ultimate aim of training and thus accentuating the position of SMEs in the renewable energy area. In addition, an educational resource centre open to the general public aims at highlighting the importance of sustainable and renewable energy generation.
Multiple benefits
150 jobs are expected to be created during the project's implementation and it is estimated that a further 38 permanent jobs will be created thereafter. Carbon and methane emissions are being reduced and energy source security is being enhanced. Economic generation for the entire region is also expected due to the additional jobs and the fact that businesses are making savings by using renewable energy sources. Crucially, the project is also helping the UK Government to meet its targets for both CO2 reduction and energy generation.
The project also aims at exploring other unproven forms of renewable energy through intensive research and development which is advantageous for industry. Various additional renewable energy projects are planned not only for the United Kingdom, but for across Europe.
Perfectly placed
The site is located beside several waste collection, processing and disposal facilities making it easily accessible. It also has a shipping berth allowing for the transportation of materials by barge. River wall strengthening is protecting the site and indeed surrounding businesses from any threat from rising river levels.
Additional infrastructure is also planned including ground works, out-buildings, grid connection and road works.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Energy Works” is EUR 165 466 100, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 22 889 949 for the 2007 to 2013 programming period. The project is funded through the priority “Promoting Innovation and R&D” of the Operational Programme “Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Competitiveness and Employment Operational Programme”.