Archives: Press Release

Drax Ceasing Operations at its Williams Lake Plant

26 November 2025

News

After careful consideration, global renewable energy company Drax has made the difficult decision to cease operations at its pellet plant in Williams Lake, B.C. The curtailment and closures of neighbouring sawmills and the loss of a bid for key local supply have led to a significant reduction in fibre availability, thus making continuing operations at the plant no longer commercially viable. As a result, we expect to cease operations after an orderly wind-down when fibre availability runs out at the site, which we anticipate will take place by the end of 2025.

“The decision to cease operations weighs heavily on us, as we recognize the uncertainty it creates for our dedicated employees and their families,” says Matt White, Executive Vice President of Pellet Operations for Drax. “We are profoundly grateful for their commitment and resilience, and for the unwavering support of our community. Together, we will navigate this challenging time with compassion and transparency.”

Drax leadership recognizes the impact that this decision will have on our dedicated workforce; therefore, they are implementing a comprehensive support plan for the 30 employees affected. This includes a severance package, as well as wellbeing support. Colleagues are encouraged to apply to open positions at other Drax sites.

“We are deeply grateful to our employees for their hard work and commitment over the years,” says White. “We are committed to supporting them through this transition and helping them find new opportunities.”

Drax will engage with employees, local communities, and stakeholders throughout this process.

Contact Information:

Caroline Bleay
Communications Manager
[email protected]

About Drax

Drax Group’s mission is to help meet the world’s increasing demand for secure energy, sustainably, and to reach net zero by the end of 2040 across our value chain. By supporting biodiversity across our sites and in our value chain by the end of 2030 and seeking to make a positive contribution to the lives and livelihoods of our colleagues, communities, and workers in our supply chain, Drax is committed to being climate, nature, and people positive in our operations.

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca

Drax Foundation funding supports education and environment programs across Canada

30 June 2025

News

Renewable energy company Drax has donated $572,715 to seven Canadian non-profits from the latest funding period of the Drax Foundation. The grantees are Dexterra Community Initiatives, The Exploration Place, Living Lakes, MindFuel, Raincoast Conservation, Trans Canada Trail Foundation, and Williams Lake First Nation. These donations will continue work already being done as well as new programs across Canada.

$60,000 will fund Living Lakes and their award-winning charitable water science and stewardship programs. Working with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, as well as many other diverse partners, Living Lakes programs work to protect freshwater by building community capacity. This funding will build a Foreshore Integrated Management Planning survey on Francois Lake in the Nechako Watershed and its important riparian zones and multiple freshwater species.

“Living Lakes Canada is a true partner of the Nechako Watershed Roundtable (NWR), actively engaging in watershed activities and connecting with residents,” said Tasha Peterson, Regional Program Lead, Northern Interior Region, Fraser Basin Council. “The information gained through the FIMP process supports the implementation of the NWR’s Large Lakes Monitoring Strategy, giving us a better understanding of impacts to individual lakes, the watershed as a whole and the actions that communities can take to support sustainability.”

“Drax values the ability to contribute and support the communities we live, and operate in,” said Sandy Sung, Drax’s Canadian Community Manager. “With funding, these organizations and their important programs will continue to benefit and better communities with new and expanded programs.” said Sung.

With a $100,000 donation, MindFuel will continue their important innovation and STEM programs for British Columbia and Alberta youth through project-based learning and hands on training. Their Tech Futures Challenge and Mini Challenges programs offer introductions to robotics, automation, coding and minilabs to students, including Indigenous youth in rural areas. The programs also provide tools to teachers to support their confidence in offering innovation and project-based learning enrichment programs to their students.

“I’d like to thank the Drax Foundation for its generous and continued support of our STEM innovation programming,” says Cassy Weber, CEO, MindFuel. “In our recent 10-year study, we learned that 87% of youth surveyed reported having an increased interest in innovation and entrepreneurship, due to positive attitudinal impacts they experienced through engagement in our programming. Additionally, 95% of youth reported that our programming positively influenced their post- secondary and career choices in a related STEM field.”

The Exploration Place will receive $120,000 towards their high-quality STEAM education programs. This round of funding will allow the expansion of barrier-free STEAM education to students, homeschoolers, preschoolers, and the broader community in the 2025-2026 school year.

“The Drax Foundation has supported our school programs since 2023, and that ongoing investment has been transformational,” says Robyn Curtis, Manager, Development. “Their funding allows us to remove financial barriers and bring high-quality, hands-on STEAM learning to students across Northern BC. We’re deeply grateful for their partnership and the opportunity to continue inspiring the next generation of curious minds.”

The Drax Foundation provides grant funding for non-profit organizations that share our commitment to improving equitable access to STEM education, nature and community green spaces, and measures that improve energy. In 2024, the Drax Foundation donated over $480,000 to organizations in these areas committed to enhancing their communities.

To learn more about the Drax Foundation and Drax’s community efforts, visit Our communities – Drax Canada or contact [email protected] for additional information.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Contact Information:

Caroline Bleay

E: [email protected]
T: 780-502-1571

About Drax

Drax Group’s mission is to help meet the world’s increasing demand for secure energy, sustainably, and to reach net zero by the end of 2040 across our value chain. By supporting biodiversity across our sites and in our value chain by the end of 2030 and seeking to make a positive contribution to the lives and livelihoods of our colleagues, communities, and workers in our supply chain, Drax is committed to being climate, nature, and people positive in our operations.

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca/

Pellet production and supply:

The Group has 18 operational pellet plants and developments with nameplate production capacity of around five million tons a year.

The pellets are produced using materials sourced from sustainably managed working forests that deliver climate, nature and people positive outcomes, adhering to strict compliance, traceability, and third-party certification standards. These pellets are supplied to third party customers in Europe and Asia for the generation of renewable power.

Drax’s pellet plants supply biomass used at its own power station in North Yorkshire, England to generate flexible, renewable power for the UK’s homes and businesses, and also to customers in Europe and Asia.

Forests, friends, and fibre – COFI Convention 2025

9 May 2025

News

Every year, industry members gather to discuss the current state of forestry in British Columbia at the annual BC Council of Forestry Industries convention. Last month, in Prince George, attendees heard from panellists and industry experts on the BC forest sector economic outlook, where BC stands as a competitor against other jurisdictions, navigating global markets, and more. From US & Canada relations to conservation and certification, this year’s convention was full of useful and insightful discussions.  

Caroline Bleay, Agata Kosinski, and Sandy Sung attended the COFI 2025 Convention. Drax was this year’s Audience Engagement Sponsor.

A group of Drax employees from BC and Alberta attended, including Anna Kauffman, Forest Nature and Conservation Manager, Sandy Sung, Community Manager, Agata Kosinski, Public Affairs and Policy Manager, and Caroline Bleay, Communications Manager. Our colleagues listened, learned, and engaged with panellists and attendees, hearing firsthand how the industry is fairing.  

As the Audience Engagement sponsor, Drax provided the question software so that attendees could ask and vote on questions during the panels and keynote speeches. These questions allowed for interactive sessions and to elaborate on the pressing topics being discussed. It also allowed us to welcome attendees on the final day of the convention, introduce Drax, and the first panel of the day.  

“Attending the COFI Convention was a wonderful opportunity to represent our company at a leading industry event,” said Caroline Bleay, Canadian Communications Manager for Drax. “Forestry is an industry that helped to build the province, so to participate in a convention that is driving the industry forward into the future while remembering its historic roots is quite remarkable.” 

Attendees and panellists discussed the balance between corporate and community, and how as the leading employer in so many rural communities in BC, forestry companies need to ensure they are being a good neighbour and community member.

“Hearing the speakers discuss the importance of participating in the communities we operate in in multiple ways reaffirmed our mission at Drax,” said Sandy Sung, Community Manager for Drax in Canada.  “The conversations further affirmed that there is always more we can do to support our communities, build stronger partnerships, and stay informed on the rapidly changing landscape.” 

Now more than ever, it is important to ensure that we consider the environment in every aspect of the work we do. For Anna Kauffman, Drax’s Forest Nature and Conservation Manager, “the COFI convention was an opportunity to connect with my Drax colleagues and other industry professionals. Presentations this year carried a notably serious tone, in anticipation of potential trade challenges.” There was a “‘pull up our bootstraps’ attitude that resonated through every panel and keynote address. Discussions centred on anticipated reform to BC Timber Sales and a desire for stable and reliable access to timber.”  

 With many moving parts impacting trade of all kinds globally, conversations on politics and the impact on BC forestry were especially interesting to convention attendees. Hearing from current and former politicians from all levels of government gave an insightful view into what the industry will be dealing with in the coming months and years.

“Attending COFI 2025 was an enlightening experience, especially when listening to the politicians discuss the current state of affairs,” says Agata Kosinski, Canadian Public Affairs and Policy Manager for Drax. Speakers highlighted that sustainable forestry practices are essential for environmental conservation, economic stability, and community well-being. “They stressed that achieving these goals requires a unified approach, where local, provincial, federal, and Indigenous governments work hand-in-hand with industry leaders.” This collaboration is vital to address regulatory challenges, promote innovation, and ensure that forestry practices meet both ecological and economic objectives.  

While underscoring the importance of dialogue and partnership in navigating the complex landscape of modern forestry, COFI 2025 also provided the invaluable opportunity to hear from industry and thought leaders, economists, and academics all in one place. These experts provided a balanced and comprehensive view of the current state of the BC forestry industry, highlighting both its achievements and challenges. Engaging with such a diverse range of perspectives fostered a deeper understanding of the complexities involved and encouraged innovative solutions. Moreover, the conference left attendees with a positive outlook on the future, equipping them with the knowledge and inspiration needed to tackle upcoming challenges. This collaborative environment not only enhanced professional growth but also strengthened the collective effort towards sustainable and resilient forestry practices. 

To learn more about the COFI 2025 Convention panellists and speakers, visit 2025 Convention | Council of Forest Industries. 

To learn more about Drax’s commitment to sustainability and community, visit Sustainability – Drax Canada and Our communities – Drax Canada.  

Featured image caption: Caroline Bleay, Canadian Communications Manager, introduces Drax and the morning panel on the final day of the COFI 2025 Convention in Prince George.

Drax Gives Over $681K to Canadian Communities in 2024

26 March 2025

News

Drax Foundation, the charitable entity of renewable energy company Drax Group, has given over $681K to communities across Canada in 2024. This marks a meaningful increase in charitable giving to support and develop STEM education, grassroots initiatives, and create a positive impact for the climate, nature, and people.   

“Drax is committed to being a good and respectful neighbour in our operating communities and beyond,” said Liezl van Wyk, VP of Northern Operations for Drax. “The Drax Foundation and Community Fund build on and back the work our operations employees do every day to support strong, vibrant communities for a net zero future.”

Read the Drax Foundation Annual Review here.

In Canada, the Drax Foundation contributed over $480,000 to communities, in addition to the over $200,000 coming from the Community Fund. Scientists in Schools, a STEM education organization which aims to encourage children to connect scientific knowledge to their world and increase interest in careers in STEM subjects. The funding helped provide over 500 children with access to STEM learning in British Colombia and Alberta. 

“Drax Foundation support has been a catalyst for our evolution as a national charity shaping the STEM skills and futures of over 350,000 youth annually,” said Cindy Adams, Executive Director, Scientists in School. “This funding has enhanced our ability to reach children and youth in rural and under-served communities in British Columbia and Alberta, with a lasting impact on increasing STEM interest and confidence, giving young scientists the opportunity to develop lifelong skills.” 

Donations from the fund have also been given to other essential organizations in Canada like the Smithers Secondary School Grub Hub Lunch Program, as well as youth programs, education and employment organizations, physical and mental health charities, community spaces, food banks and organizations that strengthen the communities where Drax operates. 

“Building stronger communities in the areas where Drax operates is the driving force behind our social purpose,” said Miguel Veiga-Pestana, Drax Group Chief Sustainability Officer. “Through our charitable giving, we’re empowering individuals with the skills and resources they need to thrive, while also making a tangible contribution to a sustainable future.” 

To learn more about the Drax Foundation and Community Fund, visit our community page..  

— ### — 

Contact Information: 

Caroline Bleay 
Communications Manager, Canada
780-502-1571
[email protected]  

About Drax  

Drax Group’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future and in 2019 announced a world-leading ambition to be carbon negative by 2040, using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.  

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca/  

Pellet production and supply:

The Group has 18 operational pellet plants and developments with nameplate production capacity of around five million tons a year. 

The pellets are produced using materials sourced from sustainably managed working forests and are supplied to third party customers in Europe and Asia for the generation of renewable power.  

Drax’s pellet plants also supply biomass used at its own power station in North Yorkshire, England to generate flexible, renewable power for the UK’s homes and businesses. 

Drax Launches New Sustainability Framework

26 February 2025

News

Renewable energy company Drax Group has launched a new corporate sustainability framework. The sustainability framework encompasses 26 time-bound targets grouped under three pillars: climate, nature, and people; laying out the actions Drax is taking on sustainability across its business operations. 

“Our new sustainability framework signals a significant change in the way Drax manages its impact on the environment, communities and nature,” said Miguel Veiga-Pestana, Drax Group Chief Sustainability Officer. “Throughout the process we have listened to and learned much from the wide variety of stakeholders who have helped us develop this plan, which will be key to helping to ensure Drax can provide renewable biomass power generation as sustainably and responsibly as possible for years to come.”  

The sustainability framework means reaching net zero by the end of 2040 across the value chain, supporting biodiversity across Drax sites by the end of 2030, seeking to make a positive contribution to the lives and livelihoods of Drax employees, communities, and workers in the supply chain, and transparency around sustainable biomass sourcing. A key to the framework is the biomass sourcing policy, which tightens Drax’s already rigorous sourcing policy to keep pace with evolving science and rising industry standards and governs all the biomass Drax handles.  

To be climate positive, Drax’s aim is to have a net positive impact on the climate by reducing emissions to net zero, source biomass only from well-managed forest, and removing carbon for good. Under the nature positive pillar, Drax is committed to not only protecting nature, but actively enhancing it by avoiding negative impact and delivering positive impact. Lastly, the fundamental value of the people positive pillar believes that energy transition can and should benefit everyone. This is done through building an inclusive workplace, promoting fundamental rights, and partnering with communities.   

The sustainability framework is the result of listening to critics, engaging with experts, reviewing previous successes, and looking back at Drax’s setbacks, all with the goal of ensuring we are on the right path.  

To learn more about Drax’s corporate sustainability framework, visit Our Approach – Drax Global.  

— ### — 

Contact Information: 

Caroline Bleay 
Communications Manager, Canada
780-502-1571
[email protected]

About Drax

Drax Group’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future and in 2019 announced a world-leading ambition to be carbon negative by 2030, using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca/

Pellet production and supply:

The Group has 18 operational pellet plants and developments with nameplate production capacity of around five million tons a year.

Drax is targeting eight million tons of production capacity by 2030, which will require the development of over three million tons of new biomass pellet production capacity. The pellets are produced using materials sourced from sustainably managed working forests and are supplied to third party customers in Europe and Asia for the generation of renewable power.

Drax’s pellet plants supply biomass used at its own power station in North Yorkshire, England to generate flexible, renewable power for the UK’s homes and businesses, and also to customers in Europe and Asia.

 

Drax receives Top Employer award for 2025

11 February 2025

News

Renewable energy company Drax has been named one of ‘BC’s Top Employers’ for 2025. This year marks the 25th anniversary of ‘Canada’s Top 100 Employers’. With a competitive group of applicants every year, Drax is proud of this achievement as it recognizes the company as a leader in the industry and an exceptional place to work.  

Each year, Canada’s Top 100 Employers reviews the initiatives employers across the country have put in place to support their employees. Amongst other reasons, Drax was selected as a top employer for its annual awards program that leaders can nominate employees for, the company’s maternity leave and fertility coverage policies, as well as their vacation allowance for salaried employees.

“British Columbia has always been one of the most progressive regions in the country in terms of benefits, flexibility and forward-thinking environmental policies — and this year’s winners are no exception,” says Richard Yerema, executive editor of the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. “The province is home to many fearless, progressive organizations that are not afraid to push the boundaries and stand out from the crowd in a way that attracts new employees from across BC and throughout Canada.” 

Employers are evaluated by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers on eight criteria including:  

  • Workplace 
  • Work Atmosphere & Social 
  • Health, Financial & Family Benefits 
  • Vacation & Time Off 
  • Employee Communications 
  • Performance Management 
  • Training & Skills Development 
  • Community Involvement 

This award solidifies Drax’s commitment to being a People Positive, Climate Positive, and Nature Positive employer.   

“It’s exciting news to be named one of BC’s Top Employers,” said Jamie Eck, HR Director for Canada. “Our People Promise is clear – together, we make it happen – and this recognition would not have been possible without our colleagues and their hard work and dedication to making Drax a great place to work. We hope that all colleagues celebrate in this achievement because it would not have been possible without them.” 

To learn more about why Drax was selected, visit https://content.eluta.ca/top-employer-drax-group-canada. Information on the national Top Employer awards can be found at Canada’s Top 100 Employers, and BC’s Top Employers (2025) to see the list of all Top Employers in BC.  

— ### — 

Contact Information: 

Caroline Bleay 
Communications Manager, Canada
780-502-1571
[email protected]  

About Drax  

Drax Group’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future and in 2019 announced a world-leading ambition to be carbon negative by 2030, using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.  

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca/  

Pellet production and supply:

The Group has 18 operational pellet plants and developments with nameplate production capacity of around five million tons a year. 

Drax is targeting eight million tons of production capacity by 2030, which will require the development of over three million tons of new biomass pellet production capacity. The pellets are produced using materials sourced from sustainably managed working forests and are supplied to third party customers in Europe and Asia for the generation of renewable power.  

Drax’s pellet plants supply biomass used at its own power station in North Yorkshire, England to generate flexible, renewable power for the UK’s homes and businesses, and also to customers in Europe and Asia. 

Drax donation provides ‘wildly immersive’ nature experience to many

31 January 2025

News

Renewable energy company Drax has donated $96,000 to UBC Forestry’s Wild & Immersive (W&I) program. The donation, given through the Drax Foundation, will continue the strong environmental and educational work UBC Forestry’s program already provides in the community.  

Located in both Williams Lake and Maple Ridge, the Wild & Immersive program increases recreational opportunities for the community as well as financial bursaries allowing equal access to those interested in their programming. 

“UBC Forestry’s Wild & Immersive (W&I) program is grateful to receive support from the Drax Foundation for the second consecutive year,” said Mark Gill, Wild & Immersive Education Program Supervisor, Alex Fraser Research Forest (AFRF). “This year’s grant will help develop a new publicly accessible trail and dock at AFRF, as well as continue supporting the bursary fund allowing for widespread participation in our programming.”  

The Drax Foundation donated over $480,000 in 2024. Organizations supporting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education, green skills training, nature-based education, and community green spaces, received grant funding to enhance their communities.  

“This year’s grant will support the redevelopment of nature and community greenspaces for the W&I program at the Malcolm Knapp Research Forest (MKRF) in Maple Ridge, creating more opportunities for W&I participants and the local community to learn, recreate, and explore,” said Hélène Marcoux, Manager of MKRF. “The grant will fund new interpretive signage in the arboretum, trail maintenance, and the addition of 10 physical challenge stations on the Wilderness Adventure Loop, featuring wildlife-related activities for children.”

The Drax Foundation provides grant funding for non-profit organizations that share our commitment to improving equitable access to STEM education, nature and community green spaces, and measures that improve energy.  

“Drax values the ability to contribute and support the communities we live, and operate in,” said Sandy Sung, Drax’s Canadian Community Manager. “We look forward to seeing the benefits of this grant funding in the communities and the advancement of outdoor education and recreation in Williams Lake and Maple Ridge.” said Sung. 

To learn more about the Drax Foundation and Drax’s community efforts, visit Our communities – Drax Canada or contact [email protected] for additional information. 

— ### — 

Contact Information: 

Caroline Bleay 
Communications Manager, Canada
780-502-1571
[email protected]  

About Drax  

Drax Group’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future and in 2019 announced a world-leading ambition to be carbon negative by 2030, using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.  

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca/  

Pellet production and supply:

The Group has 18 operational pellet plants and developments with nameplate production capacity of around five million tons a year. 

Drax is targeting eight million tons of production capacity by 2030, which will require the development of over three million tons of new biomass pellet production capacity. The pellets are produced using materials sourced from sustainably managed working forests and are supplied to third party customers in Europe and Asia for the generation of renewable power.  

Drax’s pellet plants supply biomass used at its own power station in North Yorkshire, England to generate flexible, renewable power for the UK’s homes and businesses, and also to customers in Europe and Asia. 

Drax donates $65,000 to Canadian food banks

17 December 2024

News

Renewable energy company Drax has donated $65,000 to twelve food banks across British Columbia and Alberta through the company’s dedicated Community Fund. 

The food banks receiving this support serve communities close to Drax sites in Canada, the USA and the UK, providing essential support to people who are struggling with the cost of living. 

“Its donations and support from community members and businesses such as yours that make it possible for the food bank to run throughout the year working hard to support our community members who need us” said Jennifer Palmer-Ciccone, Armstrong Food Bank’s Manager. 

Drax’s Community Fund has awarded over $821,000 in donations in 2024, including more than $100,000 to foodbanks across the world. Closer to home, the team at Drax’s Lavington operation helped to stock up the foodbank during the Emergency Services Food Drive in Lumby and Lavington. 

“Drax continues to be committed to supporting the communities we live, and operate in. We believe it’s important to show our appreciation to our communities, especially during the holiday season,” said Sandy Sung, Drax’s Canadian Community Manager. “We hope these donations help local food banks in British Columbia and Alberta support the higher than ever demand they are currently experiencing due to the increased cost of living.” said Sung. 

Local food banks receiving funding this holiday season are the Armstrong Food Bank (Boys and Girls Club Okanagan), the Lake District Family Enhancement Society, the WEE Community Food Bank, High Level Native Friendship Centre, the Salvation Army Bulkley Valley, Lumby Food Bank, Nourish Food Bank (Quesnel), the Salvation Army Prince George, Princeton Food Bank, Greater Vancouver Food Bank, the Salvation Army Prince Rupert, and the Salvation Army Williams Lake.  

In Canada, donations from the fund have also been given to other essential organizations like the Smithers School Lunch Program, as well as youth programs, education and employment organizations, physical and mental health charities, community spaces and organizations that strengthen the communities where Drax operates. 

To learn more about Drax’s corporate giving, https://www.drax.com/ca/about-us/our-communities/ or contact [email protected] for additional information. 

— ### — 

Photo caption 1: The Salvation Army team at Prince George collecting their donations last year.

Contact Information: 

Caroline Bleay 
Communications Manager, Canada
780-502-1571
[email protected]  

About Drax  

Drax Group’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future and in 2019 announced a world-leading ambition to be carbon negative by 2030, using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology.  

Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information visit www.drax.com/ca/  

Pellet production and supply:

The Group has 18 operational pellet plants and developments with nameplate production capacity of around five million tons a year. 

Drax is targeting eight million tons of production capacity by 2030, which will require the development of over three million tons of new biomass pellet production capacity. The pellets are produced using materials sourced from sustainably managed working forests and are supplied to third party customers in Europe and Asia for the generation of renewable power.  

Drax’s pellet plants supply biomass used at its own power station in North Yorkshire, England to generate flexible, renewable power for the UK’s homes and businesses, and also to customers in Europe and Asia. 

Drax inspires future female engineers at Science World’s Girls and STEAM Summit

12 December 2024

News

Drax proudly sponsored and participated in Science World’s “Girls and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Summit,” which took place in Vancouver on November 2, 2024. 

“Girls and STEAM”, an annual event hosted by Science World, inspires girls aged 12–14 to discover and pursue their interests in STEAM while learning from professional female mentors working in STEAM careers. 

This year, more than 300 girls participated in the event and a series of activities designed to help them identify and build on their interests in STEAM fields. Activities included a keynote by deep-sea scientist and speaker Moronke Harris, hands-on workshops, and an interactive mentorship session. Throughout the day, participants learned about the backgrounds, interests, education, and professional career paths of their STEAM mentors.   

“Attendees learned about the different fibre mix that goes into making Drax pellets and then matched the correct name and definition to the right fibre type,” said Sandy Sung, Drax Community Manager. The hands-on activity showed them that STEAM can take all shapes and forms in industry. 

Drax’s sponsorship at the event was provided through the Drax Community Fund. The Community Fund provides smaller donations of up to CA$10,000 to local community projects and initiatives. Focus areas for the Community Fund include STEM education and skills development, as well as enhancing biodiversity and green spaces in local communities.

“Science World is proud to partner with businesses and organizations in our community to bring STEAM education to young people,” said Issy Worrall, Manager, Public Programs and Engagement at Science World. “Having our partners participate in events such as the ‘Girls and STEAM Summit’ allows us to help showcase the broad opportunities of STEAM in industry and beyond.” 

“Sharing my experience as an engineer, and what that means for my job at Drax was really rewarding,” said Evangeline Saclamacis, Drax’s Carbon Reduction Engineer, who participated in the mentor roundtables. The girls visited our public showcase to learn more about what we do at Drax, and it was an opportunity to educate the next generation of engineers on how sustainable biomass can be used to create energy.” 

Contact Information:  

Caroline Bleay
Communications Manager, Canada 
780-502-1571
[email protected]  

About Drax   

Drax Group’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future and in 2019 announced a world-leading ambition to be carbon negative by 2030, using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology. Drax’s around 3,000 employees operate across three principal areas of activity – electricity generation, electricity sales to business customers and compressed wood pellet production and supply to third parties. For more information, visit http://www.drax.com/ca