The news source noted that Drax, which generates around 7% of the UK’s electricity, has signed a deal with the French engineering group Alstom to build a GBP50 million co-firing facility, which will enable it combust biomass as well as coal.
The company has stated that this project is one of the largest such undertakings anywhere in the world and will help reduce CO2 emissions by more than two million tonnes every year. The dual-fuel option is expected to reduce the Selby plant’s CO2 emissions by 15% by 2011.
The news source noted that 50 other sustainable fuels could be used in addition to wood, in the dual-fuel conversion. Biomass is reportedly three to five times more expensive than coal, helping to create a market for the fuel.
Drax would also qualify for the receipt of government subsidies in the form of renewable obligation certificates, with the implementation of the plan.
