Anglian Water forms joint venture to produce renewable energy

The potential fuel, known as biosolids, is produced as a by-product of Anglian Water’s wastewater treatment process. This organic product is dried and then heated in a controlled environment to produce gas, a TXU spokesman explained to edie. The initial aim of the project is to develop the fuel so that it is fit for electricity generation.

“This is a very exciting development,” said David Edge, Anglian Water’s Biosolids Manager. “Traditionally we have recycled biosolids to land as a soil conditioner. However, global warming means the creation of alternative energy sources is a top priority. This innovative solution of creating green energy will help us with the disposal of biosolids while adding to the UK’s renewable electricity generation capacity. We are delighted to be able to team up with TXU, a leader in this field, to turn this technology into a practical and sustainable reality.”

The two companies are carrying out research to check the viability of the project. If these studies are successful then the partners could develop a network of small-scale renewable power stations throughout the east of England and beyond.

“This is the first time such technology has been looked at on this scale in the UK,” said Dr Keming Zhou, TXU’s Project Manager. “We have done a lot of work already to develop a solution but we have more to do before planning permission for a first plant can be applied for. Our principal concerns are to ensure that such a plant would have a positive environmental benefit. We believe that our first generators could be operating within three years if the trials are successful.”