RWE plans to construct a combined hard-coal/biomass-fired power plant in the Netherlands. The news coincides with the German utility's plans to study the possibility of building a new clean coal generation facility in the UK.
Harry Roels, CEO of RWE, told the firm’s AGM in Essen that the RWE power plant, with a gross output of 1,600 to 2,200MW, would have a net efficiency rating of 46%. The facility could come on stream in 2012 or 2013 if planning and implementation procedures proceed optimally.
Two possible seaside locations are being examined for the state-of-the-art plant: Rotterdam Maasvlakte or Eemshaven. The facility, of which construction is expected to begin in 2008, is estimated to cost around E1.5 billion. However, on completion it would satisfy the demand of 3.4 million households in the Netherlands.
This new power supply source will enable the Netherlands to meet its expected demand for new generating capacity, the company said in a statement.
A final decision on the project will be taken following further feasibility studies.