Controversial £275m energy plant starts processing waste

Bucks' controversial £275m energy from waste plant has finally started generating power after years of opposition to the project.
Waste is processed at the energy from waste plantWaste is processed at the energy from waste plant
Waste is processed at the energy from waste plant

The plant near Calvert will treat up to 300,000 tonnes of residual waste each year using what its proponents refer to as some of the ‘most advanced energy conversion technology in the world’.

Staff at the site have now welcomed the first batch of bulked waste after passing all the relevant inspections.

Opponents to the plant, who refer to it as an incinerator, argue it will pollute the environment, be unsightly and cause traffic problems.

However, Warren Whyte, cabinet member for planning and environment at Buckinghamshire County Council, said: “The commencement of waste deliveries and the generation of electricity at Greatmoor is fantastic news.

“Not only does it mean that waste is now being put to good use via the creation of energy, it will also significantly reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill. This is the culmination of a long-term project to get the Energy from Waste plant up and running.

“The project brings with it significant economic and sustainability benefits to the county and will save council tax payers more than £150 million over the life of the contract.”

Gillian Sinclair, project director for FCC Environment, which will run the plant, added: “That’s fantastic news for Buckinghamshire and the start of a new chapter in waste management which delivers a number of significant benefits to residents and the environment.”

Greatmoor will generate 22MW of electricity per year – equivalent to the energy required to power up to 36,000 homes.