Local people are being asked to give their views on proposals Drax has to demolish some disused infrastructure at its power station near Selby, and to develop its biomass handling facilities.
The two remaining coal generation units at Drax will be turned off in March next year, leaving behind some supporting infrastructure which will no longer be needed, including the plant’s Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) system.
Drax has transformed the power station by converting four generating units to use sustainable biomass to produce 11% of the country’s renewable electricity. Because biomass produces much lower levels of sulphur than coal, the FGD system has become obsolete and will no longer be required.
Alongside the FGD demolition, Drax is investigating the possibility of developing its biomass handling facilities. This could include silos similar to the plant’s existing storage and conveyor systems being constructed. The existing limestone and gypsum storage buildings could also be re-utilised to handle biomass after Drax stops using coal.
Following consultation with the local community, the plans will be submitted to Selby District Council for consideration. The public can safely view and provide feedback on the proposals using Drax’s interactive virtual planning exhibition, which can be accessed on the website at www.drax.com/VirtualConsultation.
