A new state-of-the-art Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) in Peterborough is expected to help the city divert 95% of its waste from landfill.

The plant, opened this week, will be operated by recycling and renewable energy company Viridor. The facility has the capacity to process up to 85,000 tonnes of black bag waste a year, turning that into enough electricity to power more than 11,000 households.

In addition, the facility will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide equivalent the city produces by 10,000 tonnes.

Peterborough City Council leader John Holdich said: “The Energy from Waste facility gives Peterborough a much needed alternative to landfill. Rather than sending waste to landfill, it will be turned into electricity saving the city £1 million every year for the next three decades.

“Working closely with Viridor and our partners at every stage has seen the site successfully delivered on time and on budget, while offering the best in terms of technology, operation and community engagement.”

Peterborough Council will also generate income from the sale of surplus electricity to the National Grid, while the diversion of waste from landfill will help the local authority save money for its residents on avoided landfill tax.

Peterborough's new Energy Recovery Facility has started receiving deliveries from Peterborough City Council

Leading light

Peterborough has a stated commitment to establishing itself as the UK’s Environment Capital. Its environmental plan includes 10 pledges including zero waste, sero-carbon energy, sourcing 80% of food from local areas and making 90% of all journeys zero carbon.

A recent Growing Greener pledge in a Peterborough shopping mall saw 90 retailers cut their water usage, waste to landfill and carbon emissions.

Edie.net