Archives: Press Release

Drax and Pathway Energy agree heads of terms on sustainable biomass deal to supply new US SAF plant

12 December 2024

News
  • Companies reach heads of terms for the supply and purchase of over 1 million tonnes of sustainable biomass pellets per annum for Pathway’s SAF project in Port Arthur, Texas
  • The plant will produce 30 million gallons of carbon negative jet fuel per year equivalent to more than 150 million gallons of carbon-neutral blended SAF
  • Agreement could also pave the way for Drax to become a strategic partner in the project and supply two additional Pathway SAF projects

UK-based renewable energy leader Drax Group (Drax), and Pathway Energy LLC (Pathway), a carbon negative energy company, have reached heads of terms on a multi-year deal that could see Drax supply over 1 million tonnes of sustainable biomass pellets each year to Pathway’s proposed sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) plant on the US Gulf Coast.

Under a separate agreement, Drax could also become a strategic partner in the project, with a potential investment in the form of a convertible loan note of up to $10 million. No investment decision has been taken by Drax at this stage.

The heads of terms reflect growing global demand for SAF, which usually can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% when compared to traditional jet fuels. Modelling by the International Air Transport Association1, expects the global use of SAF to deliver 65% of the emissions reductions required for the aviation sector to reach net zero by 2050.

Once fully operational, the plant will be capable of producing 30 million gallons of carbon-negative SAF annually, the equivalent of enough fuel to power 5,000 carbon-neutral long-haul (10+ hour) flights per year.

Pathway will shortly begin Front End Engineering Design and anticipates that it will begin construction on the $2 billion plant in early 2026. Following construction, commercial SAF production is expected to commence in 2029.

Both companies also have a strategic interest in bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), a carbon removal and renewable power technology. Pathway intends to develop a BECCS system on the Port Arthur site which could remove 1.9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere each year while powering the SAF facility and ensuring the jet fuel is carbon negative.

In the future, Drax could also potentially supply biomass to two additional Pathway projects, delivering a further 2 million tonnes of sustainable pellets per year to the business’ sites through the 2030s.

Will Gardiner, Drax Group CEO, said:

“This landmark deal has the potential to be the biggest third-party supply arrangement Drax’s pellet business has made. Demand for sustainable biomass is accelerating, with international businesses seeking long-term fuel supplies for a range of projects globally – including sustainable aviation fuel and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage.

“Reaching heads of terms on this deal with Pathway is an important step in the energy transition and for decarbonising the aviation sector through sustainable aviation fuel production, which Drax is proud to be a part of. We also share Pathway’s aim of scaling bioenergy with carbon capture and storage to deliver the carbon removals that the world needs to fight climate change.”

Steve Roberts, CEO and Founder of Pathway Energy, said:

“This innovative agreement catalyzes our aligned commitment with Drax to decarbonize the aviation industry and establishes the strategic alignment with Drax to deploy additional projects leveraging proven biomass conversion technologies, sustainable biomass feedstock, and carbon capture and sequestration. With a global scale supply of CORSIA-compliant biomass material, we are well-poised to address one of the hardest to abate industrial sectors through the production of carbon-negative sustainable aviation fuels.”

ENDS

Media contacts:

Andy Low
E: [email protected]
T: 07841 068415

Pathway Energy

Mission Control Communications for Pathway Energy
E: [email protected]

Editor notes

1 Modelling referenced here: https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/pressroom/fact-sheets/fact-sheet—alternative-fuels/

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s largest integrated producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

About Pathway Energy

Pathway Energy is a low carbon biomass to energy company that integrates sustainable carbon efficient conversion technologies, leveraging carbon sequestration, to produce sustainable aviation fuel. Our development platform combines a scalable carbon removal process pathway including BECCS, and Biomass with Carbon Removal and Storage to produce carbon-negative fuels. To learn more, visit https://pathwayenergy.com/.

Drax empowers the next generation with valuable carbon capture skills

4 December 2024

News

Renewable energy leader Drax is offering young people an exciting opportunity to develop the skills necessary to drive forward the carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies of the future, including its groundbreaking Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) project at Drax Power Station.

In collaboration with Springpod, an award-winning careers exploration platform, Drax has launched its first-ever Project Sprint, which gives students aged 14-19 a virtual experience of working as a Process Engineer as part of its BECCS project. Alongside this, Drax is offering employees at Drax Power Station the chance to upskill their CCS knowledge through an in-depth bootcamp in partnership with Selby College.

The new initiatives are part of Drax’s ongoing efforts to equip young people with the expertise they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving energy industry and help tackle climate change through innovative carbon capture solutions.

The Project Sprint is an online learning simulation, developed by Drax’s Early Careers Development team and Capital Projects engineering experts. Students will step into the shoes of a Process Engineer at Drax Power Station, exploring the role’s involvement in the BECCS project at the power station. Through a series of engaging videos and a work booklet, students will learn about the process of capturing carbon emissions, identifying potential problems, and finding solutions to ensure safety and efficiency.

Springpod’s Project Sprint allows students to learn about CCS using interactive modules.

The interactive module will give students a valuable insight into the technical aspects of carbon capture technology, while developing problem-solving skills that will support their future careers. The project also aims to inspire students to pursue careers in engineering, particularly in projects such as BECCS, which will play a pivotal role in helping the UK meet its net-zero targets.

Bruce Heppenstall, Plant Director at Drax Power Station said: “Drax’s commitment to developing the next generation of engineers is integral to our strategy for a sustainable future and both Project Springpod and our CCS Skills Bootcamp will give young people the pathway to play a part in this future.

Selby College student Max Apedaile participating in the BECCS Project Sprint.

“BECCS will bring thousands of highly skilled, well-paid jobs to the local region and it is imperative that we equip young people with the skills to design and implement not only BECCS at Drax Power Station, but the CCS projects of the future, which will be critical in the fight against climate change.”“I really enjoyed taking part in the Process Engineer virtual work experience,” said Max Apedaile, a student from Selby College who participated in the programme. “It was interesting learning about the system Drax uses for carbon capture. This is going to be a huge part of the future of engineering, and it’s important for young people like me to get involved and understand how it works.”

Sam Hyams, co-founder and CEO of Springpod, said: “Carbon capture is emerging as one of the most promising technologies in dealing with climate change. It’s critical that the next generation of young people entering the industry are equipped with the right skills. Drax’s expertise in this area provides young people with unparalleled insight and gives them the chance to test their hard skills and learn from real-world feedback.”

Adrian Haigh, Engineering Lecturer at Selby College, emphasised the value of this initiative: “The course was well put together and challenging, exactly what our students need to become competent engineers of the future. The collaboration between Drax and Selby College bridges the gap between industry needs and education, providing students with valuable insight into the technologies of today and tomorrow.”

In addition to the Project Sprint, the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Skills Bootcamp, provides in-depth training in BECCS technologies, empowering the workforce of tomorrow to be leaders in sustainable energy innovation. So far over 50 Drax engineers have completed the programme, designed to upskill them ahead of BECCS deployment.

Emily Cooper, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Co-ordinator at Drax, participated in the CCS Bootcamp and shared her experience: “It’s been incredibly useful to learn about the carbon capture process and how it can be scaled up for industrial use. I plan to bring this knowledge back to my team to ensure we can effectively support the BECCS projects as they move forward.”

Emily Cooper, Health, Safety, and Environment Co-ordinator at Drax, participating in the CCS Bootcamp.

Apprentice Technician, Centime Breach-Frank, added: “The CCS Bootcamp has opened up new opportunities for me in my career. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the theory behind carbon capture and storage, and I hope to apply this knowledge in my apprenticeship as Drax advances its BECCS technology.”

Plans to deploy BECCS at Drax Power Station will require the upskilling and re-skilling of both the current and future workforce, with programmes such as the CCS skills bootcamp and Springpod’s Project Sprint proving crucial to support the 10,000 jobs BECCS will bring, and make the Yorkshire/Humber region a global centre for excellence in green skills.

Luke Varley, Head of Engineering at Drax with students from Selby College viewing a demonstration of the Springpod Project Sprint.

Drax’s collaboration with Springpod is just the beginning of these efforts to engage with and develop future talent. The company is also in the process of developing an eight-module virtual work experience programme, launching in 2025, which will be shared with over 400,000 students across the UK. This initiative will further empower young people to pursue careers in the growing sector of carbon capture and sustainable energy.

ENDS

Photo caption 1: Drax employees take part in the carbon capture and storage bootcamp at Selby College.

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected] 
T: 07729092807

Editor notes 

  • Drax is set to be one of the first power stations in the world to convert to BECCS. When the building work for BECCS at Drax starts it will be one of country’s largest construction projects – a £2bn investment in this technology of the future, supporting thousands of high-quality and well-paid jobs, from chemical engineers to pipefitters.
  • BECCS at Drax will also require upskilling and re-skilling the workforce, helping facilitate the green skills of the future, essential for the energy transition.
  • Developing BECCS at Drax Power Station will deliver significant advantages for local communities and help revitalise the North of England and will support 10,000 jobs at its peak.
  • The first unit of BECCS at Drax Power Station will deliver 40% of the negative emissions which are required to reach net zero in the UK, according to the Climate Change Committee.

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

Drax awards shine a light on young apprentice stars

29 November 2024

News

The ceremony, held near Selby in North Yorkshire, brought together apprentices from across the company’s UK operations to celebrate the outstanding contribution they have made to Drax.

Notable winners included 20-year-old Oliver Feeney, a Logistics Graduate Apprentice from Selby, who picked up the Graduate Apprentice of the Year award for his work at Drax Power Station.

Oliver was recognised for his outstanding dedication to developing his skills and behaviours and was commended by the judges for his excellent work ethic, positivity and willingness to learn.

On receiving his award, Oliver said: “I am very proud to have won the award and to see that all my work has being appreciated during the first year of my apprenticeship. I look forward to continuing my development in both the academic and professional aspects of my apprenticeship in the next couple of years.”

Other young apprentices from across Drax were also recognised at the event. PMO (project management office) apprentice Faith Roberts, 20, based at Drax’s Northampton office, was awarded Business Apprentice of the Year. Faith was commended for her bravery at taking on new challenges along with her desire to learn and was even earmarked as a strong future leader and a fantastic role model for other apprentices.

Faith said: “It has been lovely to hear all the positive feedback from my team and the wider group. Knowing that my work has had a positive impact on colleagues has been very nice.”

Ian Kinnaird, Drax’s FlexGen Assets Director, was one of the hosts at the awards nights, and he commended on the hard work and achievements of all Drax’s apprentices. “It’s incredibly rewarding to offer young people the chance to kick-start their careers through our apprenticeship programme at Drax,” he said. “Our apprentices bring with them a wealth of unique talents and fresh perspectives that enrich our work environment, and provide opportunities for all of us to learn and grow.

“I want to congratulate all the award winners and nominees, and they should take great pride in their accomplishments. We are excited to support their continued development and look forward to seeing how their careers evolve here at Drax.”

This year’s winners were:

  • Nathan Harbinson – The Paul Chambers Outstanding Achievement Award
  • Oliver Feeney – Graduate Apprentice of the Year
  • Faith Roberts – Business Apprentice of the Year
  • Owen Moran – Craft Apprentice of the Year 1
  • Martin Meechan – Craft Apprentice of the Year 2
  • Nathan Harbinson – Craft Apprentice of the Year 4
  • Mason Thomas – Technical Apprentice of the Year 1
  • Ryan Stocks – Technical Apprentice of the Year 2
  • Dylan Hall-Parkes – Technical Apprentice of the Year 3
  • Nathan Taylor – Technical Apprentice of the Year 4

Craft and technical apprenticeship programmes at Drax span four years and offer new recruits an opportunity to work alongside highly qualified engineers, gaining skills in three key engineering disciplines: Mechanical, Electrical, and Control & Instrumentation. Drax also offers apprenticeship opportunities to areas in business support such as HR, cyber security, IT, facilities, and network security.

With plans for deploying bioenergy with carbon capture (BECCS) at Drax Power Station along with the expansion of its new pumped storage hydro site at Cruachan in Scotland, opportunities for apprentices at Drax continue to grow, giving the next generation of engineers the tools to succeed.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected] 
T: 07729092807

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

Fossil fuel power generation hits record lows as UK says farewell to old king coal

28 November 2024

News

The record low was followed by the symbolic end to coal-fired power generation in Britain with the closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station, making the UK the first major economy to phase out coal power completely.

Despite the UK leading the way in decarbonisation among the G7, the report shows that significant challenges remain in decarbonising the power sector, including the needs to phase out natural gas, invest in grid infrastructure, and address rising balancing costs.

The findings have been released in the latest instalment of the quarterly Drax Electric Insights report. The publication is an independent report by academics from Imperial College London commissioned by Drax through Imperial Consultants.

In order for the country to achieve the goal of a net-zero power grid by 2030, Britain will need to reduce its share of gas from around 25% to 5% in just six years. This is in line with the pace of reduction for gas power generation seen since 2010, which was achieved in just three years for coal.

Share of Britain’s electricity demand from fossil fuels, with the trajectory from 2024 to 2030 needed to meet the Government’s expected definition of clean power.

“Phasing out natural gas at speed will be much more difficult than coal” explained Dr Iain Staffell of Imperial College London, the lead author of the quarterly Drax Electric Insights report series.

“Gas offers the grid a flexible supply that is difficult to replace, and one that is essential to energy security right now. If we continue to reduce our dependence on gas by prioritising wind and solar, they will need support from other technologies like long-duration energy storage (LDES) and dispatchable thermal power, and government will need a bold approach to rapidly upgrade our transmission grid.”

He added: “The cost of decarbonisation will increase as we approach 100% clean power. Add to that the expected 50% growth in electricity demand by 2035, and it’s clear to see we face major challenges in providing sufficient capacity and greater flexibility. The UK is leading the world on this, and must continue to lead by example and forge ahead as it has over the last decade, with effective decision making to enable a clear long-term vision.”

Bruce Heppenstall, Plant Director at Drax said: “The end of coal was a poignant moment for the UK energy sector. It puts into perspective just how far we have come since the Climate Change Act was passed in 2008 and Drax has its own unique story as part of the shift away from coal, transitioning from coal power generation to become Europe’s largest decarbonisation project using sustainable biomass to produce electricity. It is imperative that we do not rest on our laurels and invest in flexible renewable power from a variety of sources.”

“Drax stands ready to implement its plans for BECCS at Drax Power Station, which could remove 4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by 2030 whilst delivering reliable renewable power, and we are moving forward the expansion of our pumped hydro storage power station at Cruachan, providing the grid with additional storage capacity, which is essential if Britain is to achieve clean power by 2030.”

Alongside the need to phase out fossil fuel from power generation, the Q3 report also highlights the growing strain on Britain’s transmission network, particularly the bottleneck between Scotland and England, as renewable energy production ramps up.

Projects like the Eastern Green Link 2 (EGL2), a 505-kilometre interconnector designed to transport renewable electricity from Scotland to England are cited as key infrastructure investments that will help to reduce the curtailment of wind energy and ensure that more clean power is used across the country.

The sector must also contend with rising balancing costs, with balancing the grid becoming more complex alongside the rapid growth of renewables. They are now five times higher than their 2010s average.

For more information or to access the full report, visit Drax Electric Insights.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected] 
T: 07729092807

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

Drax launches documentary series to celebrate 50 Years

27 November 2024

News

The series, titled 50 years of Drax Power Station, reflects on the power station’s achievements alongside Drax’s vision for the future, exploring energy security, jobs and skills, and decarbonisation.

Since Drax Power Station first began generating power in 1974, it has become a cornerstone of the UK’s energy infrastructure, now producing 9% of the nation’s renewable electricity – the largest single source of renewable power in the country. The documentary shows how Drax has kept the country’s lights on for half a century and continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring energy security for the UK.

As the UK’s largest power station, Drax Power Station has been a critical asset for national energy security and its sustainable biomass power generation provides a stable, flexible energy source for when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine.

“We’re proud to look back on the incredible journey of Drax Power Station over the last 50 years,” said Bruce Heppenstall, Drax Power Station’s Plant Director. “This documentary series showcases how we have evolved from a coal-fired plant to a world leader in renewable energy, while also preparing for the future of renewable energy generation with our innovative bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology. The short films provide a unique insight into our commitment to decarbonisation, our community engagement and the role we play in driving forward the UK’s net-zero ambitions.”

The power station has also provided significant economic benefits for communities across the north of England during its operational life. The documentary highlights the thousands of jobs created over the years, focusing on the plans for further job creation in the area. The deployment of BECCS technology at Drax could create up to 10,000 jobs during construction and support the development of a world-leading skills base in the Humber region, strengthening the local economy and ensuring a pipeline of talent for the future.

Drax is set to become one of the first power stations in the world to deploy BECCS technology, which has the potential to remove 8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually. This breakthrough innovation would make Drax a vital contributor to the UK’s decarbonisation goals, while continuing to provide clean electricity for millions of homes.

Watch episode 1 below or view the full series here.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected]

T: 07729092807

Editor notes

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

UK’s largest renewable power station lights up for Poppy Appeal

8 November 2024

News

Drax Power Station, located near Selby in North Yorkshire, will project a poppy display onto one of its 114-metre-tall cooling towers. The tribute will be visible on Remembrance Sunday (November 10) and Armistice Day (November 11) from 6pm to midnight.

This year’s projection marks the fifth time Drax has paid tribute in this way, with members of the public able to view the display from the Drax Sports and Social Club parking area, located across from the power station.

Bruce Heppenstall, Plant Director at Drax, said:

“We are proud to continue supporting the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, and this projection is our way of honouring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

“Many of our team at Drax are veterans, and we understand the deep significance of this weekend. It’s a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of those no longer with us, as well as to support those who continue to serve and transition to civilian life. By supporting the Poppy Appeal, we help provide vital support to veterans and their families offering financial, social, and emotional assistance where it’s needed most.”

Gavin Kirk is one of the veterans who now works at Drax as a Technical Training Co-ordinator and helped to organise the Poppy Appeal at the power station this year.

The ex-Army Warrant Officer  completed 23 years’ service, finishing his Military career in 2018 having served with both the Parachute Regiment and Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC) who helped to organise the Poppy Appeal at the power station this year.

“I’m proud to work for an organisation that supports the Royal British Legion having witnessed first-hand their support to some of my Military Comrades post serving in the Military,” he said. “There are a few ex-Armed Forces personnel working at Drax, as well as several Army Reserves. The help the Legion provides for veterans like me is fantastic, with many of us relying on this support to help transition to civilian lives.”

ENDS

Photo caption: L-R: Andy Lewis, Gav Kirk, Bruce Heppenstall (Drax Power Station Plant Director), Louie Munton and Christian Reeve.

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected] 
T: 07729092807

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

New coding club to encourage the next generation of women in STEM

7 November 2024

News

Launched by the Drax Community and Education team at Drax Power Station near Selby in North Yorkshire, the club aims to promote STEM education among young girls – a key part of Drax’s long-term community engagement strategy.

Currently, only 29% of STEM professionals in the UK are women. Research from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) shows the primary reason for gender disparity in the STEM workforce is that women are not encouraged to think about STEM careers in school.[1]

The students at the club will work on a number of tasks to encourage problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration, including a project to build a replica of Sparky, a Condition Based Maintenance ‘robodog’ from Boston Dynamics, used to autonomously inspect equipment at Drax Power Station. Students will be given the opportunity to do this with a Lego SPIKE set, which combines colourful Lego building blocks, easy-to-use hardware and an intuitive drag-and-drop coding language.

Alongside these collaborative projects, students will be given examples of the real-life applications of the software they develop with the associated careers and roles available at Drax Power Station.

Jane Breach, UK Community & Education Manager said: “We are delighted to launch our brand-new coding club for girls at Selby Community Primary School. The club will provide a supportive and engaging place for girls to develop their coding skills and help to foster an environment where young girls can develop a passion for STEM subjects, which will be vital in encouraging more women into STEM careers.”

Anna Minihan, A teacher at Selby Community Primary School said: “The Lego Spike Coding Club that we ran for girls in Y5 and 6 was a fantastic experience. The kit itself is amazing – the girls loved being able to choose which Lego robot they would build and enjoyed following the instructions on-screen to construct them. Once they completed the builds, they were able to use the laptops to write their own code to program them to do all sorts of things. This really stretched their problem-solving skills and allowed them to apply some skills that they already had in coding.

“We feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to use this kit in our school and I’m so looking forward to the next sessions.”

ENDS

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected] 
T: 07729092807

Editor notes

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

[1] Over one million women now in STEM occupations but still account for 29% of STEM workforce

Fang-tastic! – fun and frights for local families at Drax Power Station’s Halloween celebrations

6 November 2024

News

With an emphasis on fun and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) learning, the event featured a variety of spooky science experiments and creative crafts.

Young visitors eagerly participated in hands-on activities, including a water resistance game that challenged them to help the Incy Wincy Spider navigate down a drainpipe of varying angles. The excitement continued with a chemical reaction experiment, where children delighted in the fizzy spectacle of using vinegar and bicarbonate of soda to inflate pumpkin themed balloons.

A Halloween-themed woodland trail also added an adventurous twist, encouraging children to explore the nature reserve while tackling a fun quiz that tested their Halloween knowledge.

In addition to the scientific fun, the event included craft stations where children created spiral ghosts and Halloween paper chains, allowing their creativity to shine

Jane Breach, UK Community & Education Manager said: “These Halloween events highlight Drax Power Station’s commitment to engaging the community and promoting STEM education for families in the areas in which we operate. Children left the Skylark Centre with lasting memories and newfound knowledge, all whilst celebrating the spirit of Halloween in a safe and festive environment.”

Established by Drax in the early 1970s, Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve now houses a variety of wildlife and serves as an important educational resource for schools, colleges, and local nature organisations.

For information on future events at Drax and the Skylark Nature Reserve, visit Facebook or the Drax website.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Kieran Wilson
E: [email protected] 
T: 07729092807

Editor notes

About Drax

Drax’s purpose is to enable a zero carbon, lower cost energy future. Our strategic aims are to be a global leader in both carbon removals and sustainable biomass pellet production, and to be a UK leader in dispatchable, renewable generation.

Our operations

Drax owns and operates a portfolio of flexible, low-carbon and renewable UK power assets – biomass, hydro, and pumped storage generation – which provide dispatchable power and system support services to the electricity grid.

We are the UK’s largest source of renewable power by output, and Drax Power Station is the UK’s largest single source of renewable electricity by output.

Through our pellet production facilities in North America, Drax is the world’s second largest producer of sustainable biomass. Drax has 18 operational and development pellet production sites which will have a nameplate capacity of around 5.4 million tonnes once expansions are complete.

Drax supplies renewable electricity to UK industrial and commercial customers, offering a range of energy-related services including energy optimisation, as well as electric vehicle strategy and management.

Our future

Drax is progressing options for carbon removals using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) technology globally and at our UK biomass power station. We are progressing plans to develop 7 million tonnes of carbon removals through BECCS by 2030.

In 2024, we launched Elimini, a US-based company to lead our global efforts to deliver carbon removals at megaton scale. Elimini’s purpose is to remove carbon for good. To achieve this, it is convening engineers, environmentalists, communities, investors, and innovators to scale the market for carbon removals, with the aspiration of transforming our economies from carbon emitters to carbon removers. For more information, visit elimini.com.

Drax Group CEO, Will Gardiner, welcomes National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) ‘Clean Power 2030’ report

5 November 2024

Opinion

Commenting on the National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) report Clean Power 2030 Will Gardiner, Drax Group CEO, said:

“NESO couldn’t be any clearer, our power stations and plans to invest billions in renewable flexible electricity and carbon removals have a critical role to play in delivering the Government’s clean power target and wider climate goals. Drax Power Station’s secure biomass generation, and our intention to double the capacity of our pumped hydro site, Cruachan Power Station, are essential components of the pathways that NESO have set out.

“NESO says the deployment of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is required to meet the Government’s carbon removal targets. We aim to install at least two units of BECCS at Drax Power Station, with the first operational in 2030 removing 4 million tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere per year.

“Our long-term projects in Yorkshire and Scotland will support British energy security, ensuring that millions of homes have power when they need it, not just when the wind is blowing and the sun is shining. And our plans will create thousands of high-quality jobs and support the UK Government to turbo-charge economic growth.

“NESO recognises a rapid decision on a transitional support mechanism for biomass generators post-2027 is required, and we also hope to see the cluster sequencing process accelerated to underpin our BECCS plans and the speedy implementation of the proposed cap and floor regime for Cruachan in the coming months.

“NESO state that the Government’s goals are achievable with faster decision making and greater ambition and we look forward to playing our part in helping them successfully meet their targets.”

Background information:

 NESO report:

  • The NESO report recognises international carbon accounting rules and classifies biomass generation as a source of renewable, low carbon power.
  • The report also notes that both BECCS and biomass are important parts of Britain’s energy security and that biomass is “the only low carbon dispatchable power currently operational at scale” in the country.

Drax Power Station’s role in delivering energy security:

  • Drax Power Station is the UK’s single largest source of renewable power, providing 2.6GW of dispatchable secure generation.
  • In 2023, it provided 4% of the UK’s electricity and 8% of its renewable power.
  • The Selby site provides enough secure power for 4 million homes, and is not dependent on the wind blowing or the sun shining to generate.
  • The science underpinning the carbon accounting for biomass generation is established and supported by leading international experts including the UN’s IPCC.
  • With an increase in intermittent renewable generation forecast in the coming years and around 7 GW of nuclear and coal capacity expected to close between 2024 and 2030, along with growing uncertainty around new nuclear development timelines, Drax Power Station will have a significant ongoing role to play in UK energy security.
  • Research by Public First finds that in 2028 a perfect storm of an increase in demand, the retirement of existing assets and delays to the delivery of Hinkley Point C will culminate in demand for power exceeding secure dispatchable and baseload capacity by 7.5GW at peak times.

BECCS:

  • Drax plans to invest billions in transforming Drax Power Station into the world’s largest engineered carbon removals plant by installing two units of BECCS at the site and creating up to 10,000 jobs at the peak of construction.
  • To achieve climate targets, including climate budgets and net zero, the UK requires the deployment of large-scale Power BECCS.
  • The UN’s IPCC and the UK’s independent advisory panel, the Climate Change Committee and Forum for the Future have all said that carbon removals from BECCS will be needed to address the climate crisis.
  • BECCS is the only technology that can deliver reliable, secure and renewable power while permanently removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
  • Analysis by the consultancy Baringa shows that BECCS at Drax Power Station could save the UK up to £15bn between 2030 and 2050, when compared to other more complex carbon reduction measures.
  • NESO’s FES report reaffirmed the UK’s need for BECCS to reach net zero, saying there was no scenario under which BECCS was not required. And the Climate Change Committee said the business models for BECCS need to be finalised quickly to meet the government’s ambitious carbon removal goals.
  • Drax believes the 5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas removals target by 2030 is impossible to meet without BECCS at Drax. This would also make the fifth carbon budget unachievable.

Cruachan expansion:

  • Drax owns and operates one of the UK’s four pumped storage hydro plants – Cruachan Power Station, near Oban in Scotland.
  • These plants are integral to the country’s energy security through storing excess power from renewables to be re-used when electricity is in short supply.
  • Pumped storage plants act like giant water batteries by using reversible turbines to pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper reservoir which stores excess power from sources such as wind farms when supply outstrips demand. These same turbines are then reversed to bring the stored water back through the plant to generate power when the country needs it.
  • Drax is progressing plans to develop the UK’s first new pumped storage hydro power station in a generation.
  • The proposed 600 MW new plant would be built adjacent to the existing Cruachan facility.
  • The project has received development consent from the Scottish Government and the UK Government is working on plans to introduce a new investment model for new-build long duration electricity storage projects in 2025.