Waste-to-Energy Company Proposes Capacity Increase for Dorset Incinerator

A company specializing in energy recovery from waste is looking to expand the operational capacity of a previously approved incinerator project located in Dorset. The BCP Council gave its approval for the energy recovery facility (ERF) plans in Parley, situated close to Christchurch, during 2022, notwithstanding 730 objections received. Eco Sustainable Solutions stated that discussions are underway with BCP regarding a proposal to elevate the sanctioned capacity from 60,000 tonnes to 105,000 tonnes of waste annually. The company indicated its expectation to issue an announcement concerning the project early in the new year. A spokesperson commented: “We have been working with BCP Council to fulfil planning conditions. “We have also been working with our technology partner regarding minor design amendments to the ERF and exploring the potential to process a larger amount of waste per annum.” Eco additionally reported that construction has begun on a £15.6m anaerobic digester (AD) at the identical location, which is designed to transform local food waste into biogas and fertiliser. The company projected that the AD plant would be fully operational by 2026, generate five new employment opportunities, and provide energy equivalent to the needs of 5,300 medium-sized residences. Anaerobic digestion involves the utilization of microorganisms to decompose organic material in an oxygen-free environment, yielding biogas and digestate, the latter of which can be employed in fertiliser production. The company stated that the AD facility would possess the capability to process over 50,000 tonnes of food waste annually, generating approximately 60GWhs (Gigawatt hours) of biomethane. Current activities at the Parley location, situated on Chapel Lane, presently encompass green waste composting, processing of waste wood, recycling of road sweepings, and a biomass combined heat-and-power plant.